J. D. Vance could have brought the country’s conflicting strands together. Instead, he took a divisive path to the peak of power.

By George Packer

From the ⁠⁠July 2025 issue⁠⁠.

Get more from your favorite Atlantic voices when you subscribe. You’ll enjoy unlimited access to Pulitzer-winning journalism, from clear-eyed analysis and insight on breaking news.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices