Donald Trump Sidelines JD Vance on Iran After He Blamed War for GOP Losses
President Donald Trump says Vice President JD Vance should turn his attention away from Iran and toward fighting crime and corruption in Democratic-run cities. "We don't need a deal with Iran. Those days have long since passed," Trump wrote in a social media post on Thursday, Nov. 12.
The move comes after Vance publicly questioned whether the Iran war was worth the cost and blamed it for Republican losses in the midterm elections.
What Trump Said
In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he had asked Vance to give "his complete and total attention" to "the Massive Corruption and Crime taking place" in Democratic-run cities and states, naming Minnesota, California and Illinois, according to Jewish Insider.
Trump argued that tackling that issue could save more money than any deal with Iran. "Our Budget could be quickly BALANCED with the correction of this large scale criminal activity," he wrote.
He also pointed to the leverage he believes the U.S. already holds over Iran. "We've got their money, Hundreds of Billions of Dollars, and we've got their Strait!" Trump wrote, referring to Iranian funds frozen overseas and U.S. operations in the Strait of Hormuz.
Vance's Role in Iran Talks
Vance had been central to efforts to end the conflict with Iran, which began in February. He had been working toward a ceasefire and a broader agreement.
On Monday, Vance met with Qatari Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, a key mediator, and had reportedly been speaking with him nearly every day. Reports also said Vance was considering face-to-face talks with Mohsen Rezaei, secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council.
Earlier attempts at diplomacy have stalled before, including when peace talks collapsed in August.
Reuters reported Tuesday that there were differences inside the administration. Vance favored a deal, Trump believed one was not possible, and other senior advisers supported keeping up economic pressure on Iran.
A Rift After the Midterms
The shift follows a difficult election for Republicans. After the party's midterm losses, Vance distanced himself from the war, questioning whether it was worth the cost and blaming it for the GOP's defeats, Reuters reported.
He also described an earlier recommendation to end the war as "sound advice."
Vance is seen as a leading 2028 presidential contender, and he is among several Republicans who eye 2028 after the party's midterm rout.
Trump has acknowledged the war contributed to the midterm losses by driving up gas prices. Still, he said he would make the same decision again to keep Iran from getting a nuclear weapon. Gas prices have recently started to ease, with inflation slowing in October.
What Happens With Iran Now
Officials have indicated that a return to major military operations is unlikely for now. Instead, the administration plans to keep up economic pressure on Iran.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Tuesday that sanctions and a naval blockade are causing major economic damage to Iran, making renewed large-scale military action unnecessary. He added that the U.S. remains ready to act if needed.
Trump had touted "positive momentum" earlier in the week after meeting with the Qatari prime minister on Monday.
A Familiar Target
Trump's focus on Democratic-run cities is not new. Since taking office in January 2025, he has repeatedly targeted those cities over their immigration policies and alleged corruption. His post did not detail what specific steps he wants Vance to take in Minnesota, California or Illinois, or who would take over Vance's role in talks with Iran.
Reuters did not report a response from Vance or the White House to Trump's post.
Curious for more stories that keep you informed and entertained? From the latest headlines to everyday insights, YourLifeBuzz has more to explore. Dive into what’s next.