There is no place for “Putin apologists” in the Republican Party

“There is no room for apologists in this party” of Russian President Vladimir Putin, former Vice President Mike Pence plans to tell top Republican donors during a speech in New Orleans on Friday.

Why is it important: Excerpts from the statements seem to be the sharpest division between the former vice president and his former boss Donald Trump.

  • He does not mention Trump by name in pre-published portions of the speech.

For Russia: “To those who argue that NATO expansion is somehow responsible for the Russian invasion of Ukraine: ask yourself, where would our friends in Eastern Europe be today if they were not in NATO?” the Vice President told donors Republican Party during his speech.

In 2020: “Elections are the future,” Pence will say, not so subtly denying that Trump and his supporters remain focused on 2020. My fellow Republicans, we can only win if we unite around an optimistic vision of the future based on our highest values.”

  • “We cannot win by fighting yesterday’s battles or by revisiting the past,” the vice president adds.

big picture: The speech will not just be a rebuke to some of the proclaimed beliefs or actions of the Trump wing in the party, the VP will also touch on popular GOP policy priorities, including “restoring the sanctity of life at the center of American law” and defending against “awakened culture” – red meat for basics.

  • “In 2022 and beyond, the American people will choose more than just which party controls their government. and the spiritual poverty of socialism,” says Pence. “That’s what’s at stake in this election, and we can’t let it down.”

Go deeper: Pence says Trump is ‘wrong’ about canceling 2020 election

Editor’s Note: This story is evolving and constantly updated.