Mike Pence reignited tensions with Trump supporters after criticizing Donald Trump’s recent speech during a Middle East trip.
He claimed Trump’s comments in Saudi Arabia disrespected American soldiers who fought in the War on Terror.
Pence Speaks Out on “Meet the Press”
During an interview on Meet the Press, Pence discussed Trump’s visits to Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.
He praised Trump’s success in securing trade deals, including a major Boeing aircraft agreement that supports American jobs.
However, he strongly objected to Trump’s remarks in Riyadh.
Pence Disapproves of Trump’s Messaging Abroad
Pence said he opposes presidents who criticize the U.S. while overseas.
He took issue with Trump questioning America’s foreign interventions during his speech.
“I think calling it nation-building dishonors those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan,” Pence said.
He also pointed out the irony of giving that speech in Saudi Arabia.
“Most of the 9/11 attackers came from there,” he added.
Social Media Slams Pence’s Comments
Pence’s remarks sparked a fierce backlash online, especially from pro-Trump conservatives.
Many accused him of promoting failed foreign policies and undermining Trump’s peace-first approach.
One X user posted,
“Trump fixed decades of mistakes. Pence wants endless wars back.”
Another user wrote,
“Every time Pence talks, he reminds us why we stopped trusting him.”
Some accused him of being disloyal to Trump during and after their time in office.
Tensions Still High After January 6 Fallout
Pence’s popularity with the Trump base plummeted after the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021.
He refused to challenge the 2020 election results during the certification process.
Since then, Trump supporters have viewed him as part of the political establishment.
One comment read,
“Pence stood by while J6 protesters sat in jail. Now he’s mad Trump wants peace? Hypocrite.”
Pence Defends War on Terror, Conservatives Push Back
Pence claimed his stance honors American troops. But many conservatives see his position as outdated and disconnected.
By defending past U.S. interventions, he has further distanced himself from today’s anti-interventionist movement.
Final Thoughts
Pence’s criticism of Trump may have pleased foreign policy traditionalists.
But it continues to alienate the Republican base that now favors restraint over global entanglements.
Former Vice President Mike Pence spoke to Kristen Welker on Meet The Press this morning to slam President Trump’s views on the 20 year-long “War on Terror.”
— DeVory Darkins (@devorydarkins) May 18, 2025
”I have never been a fan of American Presidents criticizing America on foreign soil. To have the President in Saudi Arabia… pic.twitter.com/1KdKFv8EPR
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