JD Vance: The Enigmatic Rise from 'Hillbilly Elegy' to Vice Presidential Nominee

JD Vance, the newly announced vice presidential nominee, built his RNC speech around his Appalachian roots. Previously a bestselling author with his memoir 'Hillbilly Elegy,' Vance's portrayal of rural America has faced both acclaim and criticism. Vance continues to be a complex figure navigating both political and personal legacies.

JD Vance, the fresh vice presidential nominee, emphasized his Appalachian heritage in his Wednesday night speech at the Republican National Convention. This wasn't the first time he shared his personal story.

Before becoming a U.S. senator from Ohio, Vance gained prominence with his bestselling memoir 'Hillbilly Elegy,' which resonated within rural white America hit by joblessness and opioid addiction. Yet, the book sparked fierce debates, especially among Appalachian scholars who accused it of perpetuating stereotypes.

While Vance's narrative has drawn mixed reactions across party lines, his accomplishments remain impressive. Litafik, a political consultant, notes Vance's dynamic intelligence but acknowledges a lingering hesitancy due to past comments against Trump. Vance vows to be a vice president who remembers his roots, and some conservatives strongly back his nomination.

(With inputs from agencies.)