JD Vance's Postliberal Agenda Targets Libertarian Influence, Pushes for Expanded Campaign Finance Deregulation

Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, a prominent figure in the Republican party, articulated a critical stance on libertarian influence within the conservative judicial movement in a deleted 2020 tweet thread. The thread alleged "undue libertarian influence over the conservative judicial movement & claiming it was behind Citizens United," a position described as "consistent with Vance's brand of postliberal conservatism seeking to purge libertarians from the right." This deleted social media post highlights Vance's broader ideological shift and his role in shaping the "New Right" within American conservatism.

Vance's political philosophy, often termed "postliberal conservatism," emphasizes communal good and national interest over the individual liberty traditionally championed by libertarians and some segments of the conservative movement. This approach marks a significant departure from the free-market principles that historically underpinned the Republican party. As a result, his rise has reportedly left "traditional free-market conservatives and libertarians... less than thrilled," according to NPR.

The deleted tweet's claim regarding Citizens United aligns with Vance's ongoing efforts to reshape campaign finance regulations. Jacobin reported that Vance is spearheading a lawsuit aimed at the Supreme Court to further deregulate political spending, effectively seeking to move "beyond its landmark Citizens United decision." This initiative is part of a broader, coordinated strategy by conservatives to dismantle remaining protections against corporate money in politics, indicating a desire for even less regulation than Citizens United allowed.

Vance's "postliberal" stance actively seeks to redefine the conservative movement by challenging economic libertarianism and advocating for policies that prioritize national interests and communal well-being. While he has been influenced by figures like libertarian billionaire Peter Thiel, his political trajectory, as noted by WBUR, reflects a rejection of core economic libertarian tenets that were once pillars of American conservatism. This ideological push signals a continued internal struggle within the Republican party over its future direction and core principles.