In the face of intense pressure from Donald Trump to reject election results based on unfounded claims of fraud, Pence maintained that he lacked the authority to do so.

After launching his presidential campaign in June 2023, Pence struggled in the polls and ultimately suspended his campaign three months before the primaries.

Mike Pence was honored with the JFK Courage Award for his role in ensuring the constitutional transfer of power during the Capitol riot on January 6, 2021.

During the Capitol attack, a mob threatened Pence, chanting for his hanging, yet he chose to remain and continue the certification of the election once it was safe.

Pence has positioned himself against the rise of populism within the GOP, advocating for strong foreign alliances and expressing support for Ukraine amid Russian aggression.

The JFK Courage Award honors public officials who take principled stands despite potential political repercussions, with past recipients including notable figures like Barack Obama and George H.W. Bush.

Pence's speech followed a recent interview with Trump, who was noncommittal about whether both U.S. citizens and noncitizens deserve due process under the Fifth Amendment.

Reflecting on that day, Pence described it as tragic but ultimately a triumph of freedom, emphasizing the resilience of American institutions.

He credited bipartisan leadership for the strength of democratic institutions during the attack, highlighting the need for unity in divided times.

The award ceremony took place at the JFK Library in Boston, where Pence acknowledged the support he has received from Americans since the Capitol attack.

Since leaving office, Pence has emerged as one of the few Republicans willing to openly critique Trump, advocating for traditional Republican values through his political action group, Advancing American Freedom.

Notably, Pence did not address Trump's recent pardons for individuals involved in the Capitol attack, whom Trump referred to as 'hostages.'