On the day after National Constitution Day, Villanova’s Eleanor H. McCullen Center for Law, Religion and Public Policy and the Charles Widger School of Law hosted former Vice President, Mike Pence, for an address on faith and public life. Dean and professor at Villanova’s School of Law Mark Alexander began by delivering an opening word. He wanted Villanova’s values of veritas, caritas and unitas to guide the conversation. Alexander encouraged students to embrace their passions whether they agreed or disagreed but to approach the conversation with a commitment to truth, unity and love.
Law professor and Director of the Eleanor H. McCullen Center for Law, Michael Moreland, then introduced Pence. Moreland gave a brief description of Pence’s background as a Governor, Congressman and Vice President of the United States.
Pence began by commending undergraduate and graduate students by acknowledging Villanova as an “extraordinary university.” He then discussed his move back to Indiana after his time as the vice president and his current life with his wife, children and grandchildren. Pence spoke about the meaning of the Republican Party and the need to restore the Party’s roots in national defense, limited government and human life.
Moreland asked Pence about the importance of the United States Constitution.
“It is inarguably the greatest national charter of human history that allows people to express themselves in the Democratic process,” Pence said.
He emphasized how the Constitution has influenced his life. He explained how he views the oaths he has taken for public office as a direct defense of the Constitution. Pence then described a call to action for future lawyers in the crowd. He said it will be their responsibility to both support and defend the Constitution in their careers.
Pence was then asked about the role of faith in politics, and stated the importance of doing to others what you would want done to yourself. He told students about his strong faith in God and Christian values. Pence said that Christian values go hand-in-hand with democratic institutions, as “democracy depends on heavy doses of civility.”
While reflecting on his faith, he expressed that he hoped his colleagues would agree that he “sought the truth” during his time as vice president. As a Christian, he also explained his goal of restoring civility in public life.
Students reflected on Pence’s connection to faith and Villanova’s values.
“I liked how he integrated his faith with Villanova’s Catholic mission and argued that faith is a path we all can take to restore optimism,” undergraduate student Chad Woerner said.
Moreland then asked Pence about combating cynicism in today’s political climate. Pence acknowledged the strength of the American people as what keeps him optimistic. In light of the events of Jan. 6, Pence noted the importance of upholding the Constitution in difficult times.
“The day is remembered for the resilience of our institutions,” Pence said.
Students reacted to Pence’s statements on democracy and the tragedy that unfolded on Jan. 6.
“As much as that event was tragic and a difficult moment for America, as Pence said, it was also a reminder that our institutions held strong and didn’t succumb to the pressure of trying to overturn the election,” Woerner said. “Which we should view as a reason to have some optimism.”
Pence then advocated for the restructuring and fresh start needed for the Republican party. When asked about former President Donald Trump, he acknowledged their differences.
“The President and I have a difference of opinion on the Constitution,” Pence said.
When asked about elections and presidential endorsements, Pence did not endorse either candidate’s presidency. He said he will be “simply staying out of the race,” and that he wishes both candidates well.
Despite political cynicism, Pence continued to echo his trust in the American people and in the goodness of the country.
“He is very principled in his values and has quite consistent beliefs,” Woerner said. “Although many people at Villanova will disagree with him, I hope people came away from that talk knowing that he shares many of the same values that we do at Villanova.”
Pence continued to mention the trust he holds in the American people when they vote for the next president of the United States. He concluded the conversation by leaving the audience with a final message. He expressed his optimism by saying that he does not worry about the country because he is hopeful for what the future holds.
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