Vance Again Refuses to Admit Trump Loss10/03 06:09

   

   AUBURN HILLS, Mich. (AP) -- Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance 
on Wednesday again refused to say who he believed won the 2020 presidential 
election, which has been the persistent focus of false claims by his running 
mate, Donald Trump.

   Vance, speaking in Michigan a day after debating Democrat vice presidential 
candidate Tim Walz, was asked about an exchange during Tuesday night's face off 
when he refused to acknowledge that Joe Biden won the presidential race four 
years ago.

   "Well look, here's the simple reason: The media's obsessed with talking 
about the election of four years ago," Vance said. "I'm focused on the election 
of 33 days from now because I want to throw Kamala Harris out of office and get 
back to common-sense economic policies."

   Vance then went on to speak about the need for secure elections and said he 
believes the 2024 election will be "the safest and most secure election."

   Trump's denial of his 2020 election loss had been the fuel for much of his 
campaign and embracing it has been a key test of those hoping to have his 
support. His efforts to overturn his loss led to federal criminal charges, 
which he has pleaded not guilty, and a split with his past running mate, former 
Vice President Mike Pence.

   Trump pressured Pence to overturn Biden's election win as he presided over 
the Jan. 6, 2021, ceremonial certification of the results. Pence refused, and 
when rioters stormed the Capitol, some chanted that they wanted to "hang Mike 
Pence."

   On the debate stage Tuesday night, Walz brought up the pressure campaign 
against Pence, noting the reason that Vance was on stage instead of Walz.

   Walz also asked Vance if Trump won the election.

   "I'm focused on the future," Vance responded.

   "That is a damning nonanswer," Walz said.