I read Hillbilly Elegy several years ago. I found it in a charity store and, as a part-time hillbilly, was intrigued by the title. I had no idea who JD Vance was, and he probably wasn't even a politician at that time. It's a well-written book, and the subject matter rings true to my experience of living in neighbouring West Virginia for 10 years. However, I was struck by the fact that he seemed to blame government assistance for trapping people in poverty. That's a contentious statement, but quite a convenient conclusion for someone who has embraced right-wing ideas.
The guy is certainly smart and his escape from an impoverished background is impressive. But that doesn't make him right or a competent politician.