JD Vance says 'America First' movement embraces free thinkers over 'purity tests'

PHOENIX, ARIZONA: Vice President JD Vance called for unity at 'AmericaFest 2025', Turning Point USA’s first convention since founder Charlie Kirk’s death. He said the 'America First' movement welcomes Americans of all backgrounds who love the country. Vance dismissed conservative infighting over foreign policy. He also rejected ideological 'purity tests' and criticized Democrats and progressive policies.

JD Vance reveals who has a home in the ‘America First’ movement

JD Vance told the 'AmericaFest 2025' audience that "People of every faith come to our banner because they know that the America First movement will make our lives better."

He criticized Democrats’ priorities and addressed divisions among conservatives over issues such as Israel and Ukraine. Vance said, "President Trump did not build the greatest coalition in politics by running his supporters through endless, self-defeating purity tests."

Vance emphasized, "We don't care if you're White or Black, rich or poor, young or old, rural or urban, controversial or a little bit boring, or somewhere in between…"

He added, "And they also know that the Democrats don't care about anything other than maybe trans-ing their kids."

He said, "So if you love America, if you want all of us to be richer, stronger, safer, and prouder, you have a home on this team."

Vance further said, "I didn't bring a list of conservatives to denounce or to deplatform, and I don't really care if some people out there -- I'm sure we'll have the fake news media -- denounce me after this speech."

JD Vance recalls Charlie Kirk’s belief in shaping the nation’s future

Later in his speech, JD Vance argued that internal disagreements do not signal weakness within the movement. 

He shared, "Some of you are impatient at the pace of progress and my response to that is 'Good.' I know some of you are discouraged by the infighting over any number of issues. Don't be discouraged." 

He questioned, "Wouldn't you rather lead a movement of freethinkers who sometimes disagree than a bunch of drones who take their orders from George Soros?" He recalled Charlie Kirk’s belief that politics shapes a nation’s future and urged the crowd to commit to that responsibility. 

Vance promised, "My friends, commit to these things, and I promise you victory: I promise you closed borders and safe communities. I promise you good jobs and a dignified life. Only God can promise you salvation and heaven."

He added, "But together we can fulfill the promise of the greatest nation in the history of the earth."

Vance also expanded on his vision for fulfilling the 'America First' agenda. He said, "We have far more important work to do than canceling each other -- we have got to build, and President Donald Trump is a builder." Vance said the movement advances by growing and adding, not by tearing down.

"We're building a better country right now. We build by adding, by growing, not by tearing down."