Pence has a new problem with Trump.
Former Vice President Mike Pence is taking fresh aim at President Donald Trump after reports surfaced that the Trump administration may step in to rescue failing Spirit Airlines.
The move has sparked backlash from conservatives, with Pence’s advocacy group becoming one of the loudest voices opposing any possible federal bailout.
Pence Group Slams Spirit Airlines Rescue Plan
A new memo from Advancing American Freedom argues that using taxpayer money to save Spirit Airlines would violate free-market conservative values.
The group said Americans should not be forced to pay for a private company’s mistakes, especially one that has struggled financially for years.
The memo also compared the possible rescue to the unpopular Troubled Asset Relief Program signed during the financial crisis under President George W. Bush.
“American families shouldn’t be forced to bail out Spirit Airlines and its shareholders,” the group said.
Trump Team Reportedly Considering $500 Million Deal
Reports claim President Trump recently met with Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick to discuss options for keeping Spirit Airlines alive.
One proposal would reportedly provide $500 million in financing in exchange for warrants that could give the federal government control of a major share of the company.
That possibility has alarmed many conservatives who oppose government ownership of private businesses.
Ted Cruz Sounds Off
Sen. Ted Cruz blasted the reported bailout plan, calling it an “absolutely terrible idea.”
Cruz warned that Washington bureaucrats should not be trusted to run a failing budget airline.
Sen. Tom Cotton also reportedly opposes the rescue package.
White House Blames Biden
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt blamed former President Joe Biden for Spirit Airlines’ financial collapse.
The Biden administration previously blocked a merger between Spirit Airlines and JetBlue Airways in 2023.
Many analysts say that decision weakened Spirit and helped push the company closer to bankruptcy.
Conservatives Divided As Trump Faces Tough Choice
The Spirit Airlines fight is exposing a growing divide on the right.
Some conservatives believe Trump should save jobs and maintain airline competition. Others say free markets should decide which companies survive.
With Pence now criticizing Trump again, this latest battle could become another major flashpoint inside the Republican movement.
Final Word
Whether Trump moves forward or walks away, one thing is clear: the debate over bailouts, government power, and America-first economics is far from over.