Presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump and his running mate Indiana Gov. Mike Pence gave their first joint interview Sunday, appearing on
CBS News' "60 Minutes" to emphasize that despite their contrasting styles they both have a common vision on how to lead the nation.
Trump said he chose Pence because he gained respect for him while campaigning in Indiana during the primary and said he has done a great job in revitalizing the state’s economy.
He also stressed that he picked Pence because of his individual traits and not as a means to strengthen his chances with a particular sector of the population, although he said the positive reaction to his choice shows that it was a unifying move. Trump suggested Pence’s different personality means he won't expect his running mate to go on the attack in the same style he uses.
When asked about instability and violence around the world that is threatening American interests, Pence said that "One of the reasons why I said yes in a heartbeat to run with this man, is because he embodies American strength, and I know that he will provide that kind of broad-shouldered American strength on the global stage as well."
He stressed that he is concerned about declining American power in the world, because "I truly do believe that history teaches that weakness arouses evil, and whether it be the horrific attack in France, the inspired attacks here in the United States, the instability in Turkey that led to a coup. I think that is all a result of a foreign policy of Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama that has led from behind and that has sent an inexact, unclear message about American resolve."
When asked about votes he has cast in the past when he was a congressman that contrast Trump’s views on issues, Pence said it is "obvious to people that our styles are different, but I promise you, our vision is exactly the same."
One example he gave was his support for free-trade agreements that Trump says have harmed the interests of the United States.
Pence said that, for instance, NAFTA has provisions that call for it to be reviewed but have never been acted on. Having one of the best negotiators in the world as president of the United States would enable the country to re-work those deals to make them more advantageous to American interests.
The Indiana governor did say, however, that if "I have a difference on policy or on presentation … I would have no hesitation, were I privileged to be vice president, to walk into the president's office, close the door, and share my heart. And I also know this good man would listen, and has the leadership qualities to draw from the people around him."
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