Vice President-elect JD Vance stepped away from his transition responsibilities on Wednesday to cast a pivotal Senate vote, ensuring the rejection of President Joe Biden's nominee for the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB).
Breitbart reported that the 50-49 decision against nominee Lauren McFerren shifts control of the NLRB, giving the incoming Trump administration a crucial advantage in shaping labor policy.
Vance, who will assume the vice presidency on January 20, flew to Washington specifically to fulfill his commitment to oppose McFerren’s nomination.
His vote was instrumental in blocking the five-year extension of McFerren’s term on the NLRB, which would have allowed Democrats to retain control of the board during the early months of President Donald Trump’s administration. This effort, Vance noted, reflects his broader commitment to ensuring that federal agencies align with the "America First" agenda.
Despite being immersed in his role as co-chair of the Trump transition team, Vance stated that he would prioritize blocking nominees he views as extreme.
His actions on Wednesday followed through on a November promise to oppose “radical judges” during the waning days of the Biden administration. "I’ll move heaven and earth to be there for the vote,” Vance said, emphasizing his dual responsibility to support the transition and safeguard conservative principles in judicial appointments.
Vance’s spokesman, Brian Hughes, also highlighted the stakes of the vote, accusing Senate Democrats of attempting to force through nominations in the final weeks of Biden’s presidency.
“Under no circumstances should we allow radical left judges to be jammed through the Senate at the 11th hour,” Hughes stated, reinforcing Vance’s decision to prioritize the vote despite competing demands.
Vance’s decisive vote is notable not only for its impact but also for its historical significance. He is the first senator in a century to cast a judicial vote after being elected to the presidency or vice presidency.
His continued participation in Senate proceedings ahead of his January 20 resignation has drawn both praise and criticism, with supporters lauding his dedication to conservative goals.
While staffing the incoming administration has consumed much of Vance’s attention, the Vice President-elect made it clear that he would not hesitate to intervene in critical Senate matters.
“It’s vital that I’m focused on making sure President Trump’s government is fully staffed with people who support his America First agenda,” Vance said. “However, it’s also important to me to do everything in my power to block more radical judges from getting confirmed.”
The rejection of McFerren’s nomination represents a significant win for conservatives, who now have an opportunity to reshape the NLRB’s composition.
With Democrats unable to retain their majority on the board, the incoming Trump administration is poised to influence key labor decisions that will affect workplaces nationwide.
The narrow 50-49 vote underscores the high stakes of the confirmation process, with every senator’s presence critical to the outcome.
By flying to Washington for the vote, Vance ensured that the Trump administration would begin with greater leverage in its labor policy agenda. This development is expected to have far-reaching implications for labor unions and employers, as the NLRB plays a crucial role in adjudicating workplace disputes and setting labor regulations.
Vance’s actions on Wednesday are part of a broader strategy to secure conservative control of the federal judiciary and key regulatory bodies.
As Vice President-elect, Vance has taken an active role in vetting potential nominees for the Trump administration, signaling his intent to prioritize ideological alignment in appointments.
Despite the demands of the transition, Vance’s decision to cast the deciding vote demonstrates his commitment to balancing his responsibilities as a sitting senator with his role in the incoming administration. His willingness to temporarily pause transition work highlights the importance he places on shaping the judiciary and regulatory landscape.