MIDDLETOWN — J.D. Vance is well known for his popular book turned film Hillbilly Elegy. 

Now, Vance now wants to use his success as a springboard into public service announcing his run for U.S. Senate. 

What You Need To Know

  • J.D. Vance announced his run for U.S. Senate Thursday in Middletown

  • Vance spoke to a crowd of around 450 people

  • Vance’s campaign aims to restore patriotism and the American dream

  • He spoke about his upbringing and family as ways to relate to the crowd

In Middletown, Vance’s hometown, he took the stage in front of more than 450 people eager to hear his announcement.

“We need people in Washington D.C. who know how the system works, who know how to reform system and who can make this country better,” Vance said. “And that’s why I’m running to be your next U.S. senator for the state of Ohio.”

The native Ohioan is best known for his success as an author and recent appearances as a commentator. But he now feels it’s time to step into the public space in a different form, seeking a role in public service. He said he plans to restore American patriotism and the American Dream. 

“Patriotism is what gives us the courage and resolve to go and make something of this country even when it’s hard and even when it’s difficult don’t let them take that away from us,” Vance said. 

Republican State Sen. George Lang, who represents District 4, attended Vance's campaign kickoff. Lang wouldn’t openly endorse Vance, but was there to support him during his announcement. 

“There are a lot of great candidates in this race,” Lang said. “Jane Timken, Mike Gibbons, J.D. Vance. It’s going to be hard for Ohio to make a bad decision.” 

Republicans Josh Mandel, Bernie Moreno, Mark Pukita and Democrat Tim Ryan have also declared to run for the open Senate seat. 

Lang said Vance is a hometown hero, who made his way from nothing, which is why he supports him as he moves into politics. 

“So J.D. really is the American Dream,” Lang said. “America, doesn’t matter where you start, it’s where you finish that counts.”

The Ohio Democratic party issued this response to Vance's announcement:

“J.D. Vance has exploited Ohio for years, and now with the help of his Big Tech backers, he’s taking his sideshow on the road as he tries again to rewrite history. But Vance, the ultimate populist pretender, won’t fool Ohioans who have seen him take advantage of our state for years in order to line his own pockets and the pockets of his billionaire pals,” Ohio Democratic Party spokesperson Matt Keyes said in a statement.  

Vance spoke on his family and humble upbringing during his near hour-long speech — pledging to work to build America back into something future generations can be proud of. 

“This is a beautiful country,” Vance said. “Never let them take it away from us. Never stop fighting for it. Let’s get to work.”