Walker pleased with JD Vance as VP pick

Walker looks forward to Trump policies to address inflation and immigration and said he and JD Vance make a formidable team.

by Heather Asiyanbi - Racine County Eye

MILWAUKEE, WI — Former Governor Scott Walker said he's pleased with former President Donald Trump's choice of Ohio Sen. JD Vance as his running mate.

He made the comments and addressed Wisconsin's economic challenges and the Republican Party's focus on inclusivity during an interview on the first full day at the Republican National Convention (RNC).

In an interview with Racine County Eye and other reporters, Walker emphasized the significance of the RNC taking place in Wisconsin, a state accustomed to political attention.

"We've had for years, almost decades, had a heightened level of attention politically with presidential candidates, president surrogates, vice presidents, others in the ticket and their families," Walker said as an explanation for why the RNC chose Wisconsin for its preparedness and strategic importance.

Walker pleased with JD Vance as VP pick

Walker expressed hope in leaders like Ohio Sen. JD Vance, who was announced Monday as Trump's pick for his running mate.

"JD Vance's personal story, not just as a senator, but his family, he wrote about this book dealing with drug addiction and poverty and other challenges," Walker noted. "We need that level of relatability becuae is crucial for the party's future success."

Vance is the author of Hillbilly Elegy, his memoir about growing up in the Rust Belt and his family's history with drugs, alcohol, poverty, and generational trauma.

Rising prices top list of local concerns

When asked about the primary issues Wisconsinites are concerned about, Walker was clear that high prices are the number one issue for state residents.

"What we hear by far is the economy but specifically high prices," he said. "When I go to fill up my tank at Kwik Trip or when I go to the grocery store Delafield where I live, the prices are high, and I think that's true all across the state"

He detailed the impact on residents, citing that "prices are up 20%. Gas is up by almost a buck and a quarter from four years ago. Housing prices for my kids are up 30%."

He stressed the need for presidential candidates to address these economic strains with a solid plan.

When asked about Deanna Alexander's emphasis during the Marquette Law School event prior to the RNC about serving all community members, even those who might not vote Republican, Walker agreed with her.

"As an American first, we want this country to do well," he said.

Walker recalled Trump's intervention in Kenosha after the officer-involved shooting of Jacob Blake as an example.

"The vast majority of people he helped in the city of Kenosha were not necessarily voters, but it was still important that he cared for them," he continued. "He understood them and knew what the challenges they faced and was willing to take action protecting them."

Immigration also an issue related to drugs

During the interview, Walker addressed concerns about immigration, particularly its impact on public safety and the economy. He emphasized the need for strong leadership to tackle issues related to illegal immigration and the influx of drugs, such as fentanyl, into the country.

"People are struggling, they're dealing with addiction in many cases because of drugs and fentanyl coming over the southern border as public safety concerns, particularly when it comes to violent crime," he stated.

Walker underscored the importance of securing the border to protect communities and support those affected by the challenges of illegal drug addiction.

Racine County Eye is attending the RNC and will continue providing stories about how national issues have an impact on the local community.