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#607 | The Life of JD Vance (English Listening Practice)

23 Apr 2026 · 26 min

Episode #607 | The Life of JD Vance (English Listening Practice)

0:00 26:22

JD Vance grew up in a struggling Ohio town, escaped poverty, and wrote a memoir that made him famous across the world.

Then, having spent years attacking Donald Trump, he became his most loyal ally — and, in January 2025, Vice President of the United States.

In this episode, we look at the life, the book, and the unlikely journey of one of the most controversial figures in American politics.

• Hillbilly Elegy explains Rust Belt; 2016 spotlight, bestseller, film • Chosen as Trump’s running mate for Vice President • Tough childhood in Ohio; addiction, instability, grandparents’ support • Military gave structure; Ohio State, Yale Law, mentors, memoir • Backed by Peter Thiel; critics question working-class image • From Trump critic to ally; won Ohio Senate seat • America First ideas: sceptical on Ukraine aid, protect manufacturing • Very conservative socially; anti-abortion, pro-family, strict immigration • Seen as 2028 favourite; young potential future president • Debate: does he truly understand and represent working-class America?

Full interactive transcript, subtitles and key vocabulary available on the website: https://www.leonardoenglish.com/podcasts/jd-vance

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