Senator JD Vance, who is rumored to be a potential vice presidential candidate, has reportedly been given the code name “Bobcat” by the Secret Service. This development comes amid controversy and outrage surrounding former President Donald Trump’s near-death experience in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13.

The Daily Mail reported, citing a friend of Vance, that the code name Bobcat is used by the Secret Service when referring to him. Code names are traditionally assigned to presidents, vice presidents, first ladies, and other significant figures under Secret Service protection.

The choice of “Bobcat” is notable because it ties into Vance’s connections to both Ohio University and Breathitt County High School, both of which have the Bobcat as their mascot. In his best-selling memoir Hillbilly Elegy, Vance also discusses his family’s history in Jackson, Kentucky.

Fox News provided context on the use of code names, explaining that while they once served a critical security function for protecting the nation’s leaders, they are now largely ceremonial in the age of encrypted communication. However, these names are still used to facilitate quick and efficient communication during high-pressure situations.

The outlet further mentioned that, according to a Secret Service spokesperson quoted by The Washington Post, code names are often chosen on a whim but usually have some connection to the individual’s background or heritage. Within families, alliteration is also often used in code names.

Despite some critics suggesting that Trump should consider replacing Republican Ohio Senator JD Vance as his potential vice-presidential pick, pollster Frank Luntz, who has previously opposed Trump, refuted these claims. During an interview with CNN, Luntz argued that Vance resonates with a key demographic that Trump needs to secure.

Luntz explained that Trump’s choice to align with Vance is strategic, given Vance’s background, which mirrors the experiences of many Americans that Trump appeals to. He emphasized that the most crucial voter demographic consists of those living paycheck to paycheck—individuals with jobs who may not have college degrees and are struggling to make ends meet.

This demographic, Luntz noted, makes up about a quarter of the American electorate and historically votes for Democrats over Republicans by a margin of two to one. Trump, however, managed to narrow this gap significantly in previous elections. Luntz suggested that if this group shifts its support to Kamala Harris, she could become the next president; conversely, if Trump retains their support, he could win the presidency again.

Luntz further highlighted that JD Vance has a strong appeal to this group because he shares their experiences. He pointed out that this segment of the population is often overlooked and underrepresented in political discussions. Through his focus groups, particularly in certain states, Luntz encounters individuals from this demographic who are struggling economically.

He explained that the economy is not working for them—they aren’t shareholders and don’t have a financial cushion. They could face severe consequences, such as losing their homes or cars if they lose their jobs or miss a paycheck. Luntz concluded by stating that there is considerable sympathy for this group in the country, and he believes they will be a central focus in future political strategies.

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