Mike Pence Calls Vivek Ramaswamy 'Rookie' in GOP Debate

August 24, 2023: Former Vice President Mike Pence called Vivek Ramaswamy a “rookie” in the first Republican presidential debate on Wednesday night, saying that the country does not have time for “on-the-job training” for the next president.

Pence, also a former governor of Indiana, commented during a discussion about the economy. Ramaswamy, a retired pharmaceutical executive making his first run for office, has said that he is running for president because he believes the country is “in a crisis” and that the current political establishment is incapable of solving it.

In the debate, Pence said that Ramaswamy is “a smart guy” but does not have the experience necessary to be president.

“This is not the time for on-the-job training,” Pence said. “This is the time to elect a president who knows how to get things done.”

Ramaswamy responded that he is not a “rookie” and has a proven track record of success in the private sector. He also said that he is not afraid to take on the establishment.

“I’m not a rookie,” Ramaswamy said. “I’m a disruptor.”

The exchange between Pence and Ramaswamy was one of the most heated moments of the debate. It highlighted the different approaches the two men take to the 2024 Republican presidential primary. Pence runs as a traditional conservative, while Ramaswamy runs as an outsider challenging the status quo.

Whether Ramaswamy’s lack of experience will be a liability in the race remains to be seen. However, his willingness to take on the establishment could appeal to some voters looking for a change.

Actionable Takeaways:

• Mike Pence called Vivek Ramaswamy a “rookie” in the first Republican presidential debate.
• Pence said that the country does not have time for “on-the-job training” for the next president.
• Ramaswamy responded that he is not a “rookie” and has a proven track record of success in the private sector.
• The exchange between Pence and Ramaswamy highlighted the two men’s approaches to the 2024 Republican presidential primary.
• Whether Ramaswamy’s lack of experience will be a liability in the race remains to be seen.