Former Vice President Mike Pence appeared on CNN’s “News Central” to promote his new book, “What Conservatives Believe: Rediscovering the Conservative Conscience,” where he discussed and defended aspects of President Donald Trump’s policy approach while also drawing distinctions with traditional conservative ideology.

During the interview, Pence addressed tariffs and trade policy, noting that Trump has long supported tariffs but arguing that, during their administration, tariffs were primarily used as leverage in negotiations such as NAFTA revisions and trade discussions with South Korea.

CNN anchor Kate Bolduan pushed back on Pence’s framing, suggesting that Trump himself is actively driving a more populist economic agenda rather than being influenced by external actors.

Pence disagreed, arguing that new voices within the administration have contributed to policy shifts that differ from earlier Republican orthodoxy, particularly regarding government involvement in business and trade.

Bolduan also challenged Pence’s interpretation of Trump’s stance on certain economic policies, referencing prior remarks by Trump indicating enthusiasm for more aggressive economic intervention.

The discussion grew more pointed as Pence emphasized that Republicans have historically supported limited government and free-market principles, suggesting that some recent populist policies diverge from those traditions.

Despite his critiques, Pence reaffirmed that Trump remains the central figure in the Republican Party and acknowledged his continued influence over GOP primary voters and candidate success across the country.

Pence also used the interview to clarify that while he supports many Republican priorities, he believes parts of the current populist-right agenda risk straying from conservative foundations.

He stressed that his book is intended to encourage a return to traditional conservative principles while still recognizing Trump’s political dominance within the party.The exchange highlighted ongoing tensions within the Republican Party between establishment conservatism and Trump-aligned populism.