Former Vice President Mike Pence has officially launched his campaign for the 2024 Republican presidential nomination, putting himself in direct competition with former President Donald Trump. Pence announced his candidacy on Monday during a rally in Iowa, the first state to hold a presidential caucus. He touted his conservative record and highlighted his accomplishments during his time as vice president.

However, the launch of Pence’s campaign has also reignited speculation about a possible challenge from Trump, who has yet to announce his plans for the 2024 election. Trump has expressed interest in launching another presidential bid, and his continuing popularity among Republican voters could make him a formidable opponent for Pence.

The rivalry between Pence and Trump, once close political allies, has been simmering since the 2020 election, when Pence refused to overturn the results of the election despite pressure from Trump and his supporters. The rift between the two men deepened further after the January 6th attack on the Capitol, which Trump was accused of inciting.

As the race for the Republican nomination heats up, both Pence and Trump are expected to ramp up their efforts to win over the party’s base. Other potential candidates, including Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and former Secretary of State Mike Pompeo, may also enter the fray.

Regardless of who ultimately wins the nomination, the 2024 election is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for the Republican Party. With Democrats in control of the White House and Congress, Republicans are eager to win back power and set their agenda for the future. Whether Pence or Trump emerges as the party’s standard-bearer, the road ahead promises to be contentious and highly competitive.