Donald Trump's selection of JD Vance as his vice-presidential running mate marked a pivotal moment that signaled a departure from his first-term governance approach, characterized by a coalition-like structure with moderating influences. Vance, a staunch MAGA supporter, contrasted with other potential choices like Marco Rubio and Doug Burgum, who represented the pre-Trump Republican establishment. Despite efforts by influential figures such as Rupert Murdoch and Ken Griffin to dissuade Trump from choosing Vance, he was ultimately swayed by the likes of Don Jr., Elon Musk, and Tucker Carlson. This decision reflected a shift towards a more authoritarian style of leadership for Trump's second term, eschewing dissent and embracing loyalists who would not challenge his authority. Consequently, Trump's second term is characterized by a lack of checks and balances, with a focus on loyalty and unwavering support for his agenda, amplifying the aggressive and unrestrained nature of his presidency.

On July 15, 2024, Donald Trump announced JD Vance as his vice-presidential pick, signaling a shift from a coalition-style governance to a more centralized, loyalist-driven approach for his second term.

The decision to choose Vance, a fervent MAGA advocate, over more traditional Republicans like Marco Rubio and Doug Burgum, highlighted a move away from moderating influences that characterized Trump's first term.

Despite lobbying efforts from conservative figures like Rupert Murdoch and Kellyanne Conway to deter Trump from selecting Vance, he was ultimately influenced by figures such as Don Jr., Elon Musk, and Tucker Carlson.

Trump's first term was marked by an uneasy alliance with the Republican establishment and a staff that sometimes acted as a check on his more extreme impulses, preventing some of the dire predictions from coming true.

In contrast, his second term is depicted as a 'royal court' where dissent is absent and loyalty is paramount, with staff and congressional Republicans backing extreme measures such as proposing a third term for Trump.

Ezra Klein argues that Trump's disinhibition has become more pronounced in his second term, with the absence of advisors willing to challenge him, leading to a presidency designed for ferocity and recklessness.

The choice of JD Vance represents the crystallization of this new structure, where Trump is surrounded by yes men and accelerationists, emphasizing an administration focused on his personal power and agenda.