Vice President JD Vance visited Rocky Mount, North Carolina, on March 13, 2026, to promote recent economic improvements, encourage Republican election wins, and address U.S. military actions against Iran. The event included former RNC chairman and GOP Senate nominee Michael Whatley and Small Business Administration head Kelly Loeffler.
Vance Cites Rising Home Purchases and Tax Refunds
Vance pointed to a surge in new home purchases, reaching their highest five-year level, and six consecutive months of declining rent costs. He further highlighted that North Carolina families are receiving an average tax refund of approximately $3,700, and interest rates are at their lowest since the last Trump presidency. Loeffler emphasized efforts to reduce government waste and criticized Democratic border and policing policies.
Vance on Iran Nuclear Threat and Military Operation
Regarding the ongoing U.S. Operation Epic Fury against Iran, Vance reaffirmed the administration’s objective to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons, describing it as a consistent policy across multiple presidencies. He declined to disclose details of his classified Situation Room discussions with President Donald Trump, citing legal and security reasons.
Support for GOP Senate Candidate Michael Whatley
Vance endorsed Michael Whatley, who won the GOP primary to succeed retiring Senator Thom Tillis, in his upcoming race against former Democratic Governor Roy Cooper. Vance criticized Cooper’s stance on immigration and foreign aid, while a spokesperson for Cooper contested the criticisms, defending his record as attorney general and governor on crime and public safety issues.
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