Today, Explained It’s time to talk about Mike Pence
Oct 5, 2020
McKay Coppins, a staff writer at The Atlantic known for his in-depth analysis of Mike Pence and the Trump era, dives into Pence's political journey. He discusses Pence's unwavering loyalty to Trump during chaotic times like the pandemic. Coppins explores Pence's ambitious presidential aspirations and his complex relationship with faith and politics. The conversation also reveals Pence’s ideological evolution from a Democrat to an influential evangelical leader, shedding light on the challenges he might face if he pursued higher office.
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Trump and Pence's Relationship
- Trump and Pence's relationship is like a toxic big brother/little brother dynamic.
- Trump mocks Pence's religion and family pets, while Pence performs theatrical deference.
Pence's Justification
- Pence justifies his loyalty to Trump through the evangelical concept of "servant leadership."
- He believes his submission to Trump is a religious duty, despite Trump's behavior.
Pence's Ambition
- Pence is deeply ambitious and believes his path to the presidency is divinely ordained.
- This belief potentially allows him to rationalize any actions taken in pursuit of power.