Vice President JD Vance views religion as essential in tackling America’s significant challenges. He criticizes Republicans for separating politics from religion when it suits them. In his book Communion: Finding My Way Back to Faith, Vance highlights how Christians apply religious principles without considering real-world implications. His critique crosses political lines, targeting libertarians and the far left, especially on issues like the economy and immigration.
Politics and Religion
Vance argues that while many seek to keep politics and religion apart, involving the Christian church in societal aspects can help resolve U.S. problems. He claims that when Republicans push for church-state separation, they hinder this mission. He critiques attitudes that make the church irrelevant by isolating it from public life.
Immigration and the Catholic Church
The Trump administration’s immigration policies faced criticism from pastors and the Catholic Church. In 2025, the Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a statement expressing concern over rhetoric and policies affecting immigrants, including family separations and detention conditions. The bishops emphasize inherent human dignity and call for meaningful immigration reform. This statement angered some Republicans but was viewed as ‘measured’ by Vance. Vance urges Christians to engage with immigration issues, stressing the challenges of applying moral principles in practice.
Vance notes that discussions on immigration should focus on reality. He acknowledges the complexities, such as the balance between border control and humane treatment. He highlights difficulties like enforcement issues promoting human trafficking and challenges in assimilation due to increased immigration.
The U.S. Economy and Christianity
Vance explores a Christian approach to the economy, suggesting that GDP maximization should not overshadow family interests. He argues that the economy should facilitate human flourishing. He criticizes Vice President Kamala Harris’s proposal for extended school days, emphasizing the need for parents to spend more time with their children.
Vance also criticizes libertarian views on paid parental leave, arguing that the focus on commerce undermines societal values. He calls for an economy oriented toward ‘creation and dignity,’ lamenting that Christians often ignore economic aspects of social life in favor of cultural topics.