Former Vice President Mike Pence delivered a reflective message on America’s political climate during the 2026 Mackinac Policy Conference, warning that Washington has become more divided than at any point in his adult life. Responding to a question about finding “common ground” in modern politics, Pence remarked that the nation’s political atmosphere is deeply fractured, joking that polarization has grown worse “since I had dark hair,” while stressing that he does not believe ordinary Americans are as divided as the political class appears to be.

Pence argued that everyday citizens consistently demonstrate generosity, cooperation, and unity during moments of crisis, even when political leaders remain locked in bitter partisan battles. He pointed to examples of bipartisan collaboration during natural disasters involving Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer and former Governor Rick Snyder, suggesting that Americans often come together far more effectively at the community level than elected officials do in Washington.

The remarks arrive as national political tensions continue intensifying ahead of another high-stakes election cycle dominated by debates over immigration, foreign policy, economic uncertainty, and cultural division. While Pence has at times differed publicly from President Donald Trump since leaving office, conservatives continue debating how the Republican Party should balance strong ideological battles with broader appeals to unity and national cohesion in an increasingly polarized political environment.