Mike Pence Returns to Academia
Former Vice President Mike Pence is stepping back into the academic world. After serving as the vice president under Donald Trump during his first term, Pence is now taking on the role of a professor at George Mason University’s Schar School of Policy and Government.
The school announced on Tuesday that Pence will be teaching undergraduate courses and hosting public seminars beginning next spring. Additionally, he’s expected to engage with students in mentoring programs, particularly those pursuing degrees in political science, law, administration, and other related fields.
Schar School Dean Mark Rozell noted that Pence’s disciplined approach to communication and his conservative values will provide a solid foundation for discussions around topics like federalism and the role of values in public life. “His insights will be beneficial for students navigating these complex subjects,” he added.
Pence himself expressed excitement about this opportunity. “Throughout my public service, I’ve recognized the significance of principled leadership,” he remarked, adding that he looks forward to sharing those experiences with aspiring leaders at the university.
Pence, 66, previously served as the governor of Indiana before becoming Trump’s running mate in 2016. He was a loyal vice president, but his relationship with Trump has soured following the events of January 6, 2021, when a mob of Trump supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol. Pence, who refused to cater to Trump’s attempts to overturn the 2020 election results, faced backlash from some of the former president’s supporters, branding him a traitor for his actions that day.
After kicking off his presidential campaign in June 2023, Pence became the first vice president in over 80 years to challenge his former boss for the GOP nomination. He campaigned on a traditional conservative platform, positioning himself against the rising populism within the party. However, his campaign struggled with both fundraising and polling, leading him to withdraw just a few months after announcing his candidacy.
