Mike Pence on the Future of Conservatism

Thought Leader: Mike Pence

September 19, 2025

In a conversation with Tim Alberta at The Atlantic Festival, former Vice President Mike Pence discussed his conservatism, the state of free speech on the right, and his relationship with President Donald Trump.

Alberta asked Pence about ABC’s decision last night to “indefinitely suspend” the comedian Jimmy Kimmel. The network’s move came after Kimmel said “the MAGA gang” was “desperately trying to characterize this kid who murdered Charlie Kirk as anything other than one of them.” The Federal Communications Commission chairman threatened Disney, which owns ABC, with unspecified consequences if it did not “take action” against Kimmel. Pence argued that there’s a distinction between government censorship and private employment decisions, stating that “the First Amendment does not protect entertainers who say crass or thoughtless things, as Jimmy Kimmel did in the wake of a national tragedy,” and that it is an employer’s right “to make that decision.” However, he added, he “would have preferred that the chairman of the FCC had not weighed in.”

Alberta cited a string of other incidents that suggest the administration’s intolerance of oppositional speech, including Attorney General Pam Bondi’s promise to prosecute “hate speech” and Homeland Security Adviser Stephen Miller’s vow to dismantle left-wing groups.

Pence seemed open to government investigation into left-wing groups that participated in acts of violence during the Black Lives Matter protests in the summer of 2020. “But that doesn’t include people that are simply exercising their First Amendment rights in a peaceful manner,” he said.

Alberta also asked Pence about his willingness to buck Republican Party norms when they conflicted with his conservative principles. Pence noted that elected officials have an obligation to serve their country and their constituents over the president. Pence also insisted that Trump has not changed the Republican Party. He remains hopeful that when Trump exits the stage, his party will return to its Ronald Reagan–era roots.

Until then, Pence said, “I do think leaders would do well to restore a threshold of civility in American public life.”

Mr. Pence served as vice president of the United States, 2017-21. He brings a wealth of experience from the highest levels of government, offering audiences firsthand insights into leadership, public service, and the future of American politics. Known for his calm demeanor and principled leadership, Vice President Pence is a compelling speaker for audiences seeking clarity and perspective in today’s complex political landscape. To host Vice President Pence at your next event, contact WWSG.

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