Days After Refusing Endorsement Pence Now Accuses Trump of Defying Constitution

Former Vice President Mike Pence accused former President Donald Trump of “walking away” from the Constitution days after hesitating to back the Republican presidential nominee.

Pence told CBS’s “Face the Nation” on Sunday that many Americans believe his “profound differences” with Trump are limited to the events surrounding the Capital violence. Trump and Pence officially split following the attack on January 6, 2021, with Pence refusing to interfere with Congress’ certification of the 2020 election.

Mike Pence says he has "forgiven" Donald Trump "in my heart" for January 6: "As a Christian I'm required to do that. I've prayed for him in that regard."

But he says he will not endorse Trump and does not say if he will vote for Trump in November. pic.twitter.com/TIu04v1B0h

— Face The Nation (@FaceTheNation) March 17, 2024

However, the former vice president told CBS’ Margaret Brennan on Sunday that his disagreement with Trump extends beyond a single day.

“The issue of fealty to the Constitution is not a small matter,” Vice President Mike Pence stated. “But it’s not only that. I mean, the reason I can’t in good conscience endorse Donald Trump this year is that he’s walking away, not just from upholding the Constitution on that day, but also, Margaret, from a commitment to fiscal responsibility, the sanctity of life, and American leadership in the world.”

During the interview, Pence expressed his desire to see the ultimate 2024 GOP contender support a 15-week abortion ban across the country. He also chastised Trump for appearing to change his mind about TikTok in recent weeks, following his opposition to a law that would restrict or force the app’s sale.

.@Mike_Pence says he would like to see the Republican presidential nominee "endorse a minimum 15-week ban" federally on abortions, "but also I'd like to see a nominee that's affirming the sanctity of life as it's debated in states across the country. This is a pro-life party." pic.twitter.com/Om6HfjdtnC

— Face The Nation (@FaceTheNation) March 17, 2024

When challenged about Trump’s reference to anyone facing prosecution in connection with the Capitol brawl as “hostages,” Pence again rebuked his former boss.

“I believe it’s really sad that the (previous) president or any other politicians would refer to persons going through our court system as hostages while there are American prisoners in Gaza. “It’s simply unacceptable,” Pence stated Sunday.

Last week, the former vice president openly stated that he would not support the former president for another term in the White House, echoing an accusation that his former boss had drifted too far from conservative doctrine.

“It should come as no surprise that I will not be endorsing Donald Trump this year,” Pence told Martha MacCallum of Fox News on Friday.