Vice President JD Vance Criticizes Europe’s Democratic Values and Free Speech Policies

Vance's remarks at the Munich Security Conference and CPAC raise questions about U.S.-Europe alliances, defense commitments, and shared values.

At the Munich Security Conference, Vice President JD Vance accused European governments of abandoning democratic principles, citing election annulments and restrictions on free speech.
Vance linked U.S. defense commitments in Europe, particularly in Germany, to the preservation of shared democratic values, suggesting American taxpayers would not support funding countries with authoritarian tendencies.
He criticized Germany's hate speech laws, highlighting cases of individuals being prosecuted for online speech, and argued these policies undermine democracy and free expression.
Vance reiterated his concerns at CPAC, emphasizing the need for Western nations to protect free speech, secure borders, and uphold sovereignty as foundational to their alliances.
European leaders, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, strongly rejected Vance's claims, defending their policies as necessary to curb extremism and maintain social order.