White House's first reaction to Orban's defeat: 'We are sad, but not surprised'
Vice President JD Vance stated on Monday evening that he was "sad" but not too surprised by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's election loss, claiming his decision to campaign with the autocrat in Budapest last week was more about showing up for a loyal ally than helping him win, Politico reports.
TL;DR
- Vice President JD Vance stated he was sad but not surprised by Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban's election loss.
- Vance explained his decision to campaign with Orban was to support a long-time ally, not based on an expectation of victory.
- Orban's defeat marks the end of his sixteen-year rule and is seen as an inspiration for the MAGA movement, with his stances against immigration and LGBTQ+ rights.
- Analysts believe Orban's loss is a significant blow to the populist right movement's narrative of having 'the people' on their side.
- Steve Bannon views Orban's defeat as a "warning signal for November" and upcoming midterm elections.
- Former President Trump has not yet publicly commented on the defeat of his political ally.
- White House aides suggested they are focused on more pressing issues, such as the Iran ceasefire and a new US blockade in the Strait of Hormuz.