I see Vance as a self-made man. One thing not mentioned is that he was a Marine combat correspondent for 6 months in Iraq. He served for 4 years - 2003-2007. I'm sure that service opened a lot of doors for him, but it also says a lot about his character.

Obama was a community organizer that was skilled in dirty Chicago politics. He had a very sketchy background that was really made up. He never had any allegiance or respect for America. Vance served America for 4 years. It takes a selfless person to do that.

Vance's upbringing shaped his entire life. I didn't read Hillbilly Elegy, all I did was watch the trailer for the movie but it looked like a very gut-level look at his life. I'd probably get terribly depressed if I watched it but I think he's an honest person and its admirable that he worked his way out of his upbringing. It isn't easy to do.