'Eye of the Tiger' and 'Only Murders in the Building': Mike Pence shares his campaign music, TV picks

EXETER, N.H. — Former Vice President Mike Pence took on major issues facing the world during a town hall event last week presented by Seacoastonline and the USA TODAY Network, defending Israel, condemning the lawmakers who voted to oust former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., and more.

But backstage at the historic Exeter Town Hall on Friday, Pence gave voters a more personal peek, sharing some of his favorite books and music. The former vice president, donning a navy blue suit, also explained how he wants to make life better for young voters.

Here's a closer look at Pence's comments, from his policy priorities to his current playlist picks.

'Eye of the Tiger' is on Mike Pence's playlist

Pence said music is something that sustains him every day, but what he’s watching or listening to depends on his campaign schedule.

“When we're headed back to Indiana from Iowa, we're listening to Eastbound and Down, but our taste in music changes,” Pence said. “On the way to one of the recent debates I was listening to the theme from 'Rocky,' 'Eye of the Tiger.'”

“But every single day, I'm someone that really enjoys contemporary Christian music and take a moment to reflect on my faith and values and enjoy the inspiration.”

The novel “The Oceans and the Stars,” written by Mark Helprin, is on Pence’s nightstand.

“I discovered Mark Helprin’s writings more than 25 years ago. And to me, he's the most compelling novelist in America today,” Pence said. “And I've just begun this epic story about a Navy man. It's a love story, but it's a story of great heroism.”

As the father-in-law of a Navy lieutenant and the father of a captain in the Marine Corps, Pence said he’s “already caught up in this novel and the story of how one man can make a great difference in the service of his nation and devotion to his family.”

Mike Pence's guilty pleasure TV show: 'Only Murders in the Building'

Pence said he and his wife, former second lady Karen Pence, have enjoyed 'Only Murders in the Building,' the comedy about neighbors who investigate deaths in their New York apartment building.

He said he’s been a lifelong fan of Steve Martin, who stars in the show.

“He and Martin Short, I think are two of the funniest people on the face of the Earth, and we've enjoyed that show,” Pence said.

How would Mike Pence make life better for young voters?

Pence told the USA TODAY Network he thinks young voters share the same concerns all Americans have, particularly over what he called the “worst inflation in 40 years.”

“Energy prices are through the roof,” Pence said. “A recession seems to be looming on the horizon. And what I want young Americans to know is that we're going to get this economy moving again.”

He echoed some of his longtime campaign promises, saying “We're going to make the tax cuts that we put into effect in 2017 permanent. We're going to roll back regulations. We're going to unleash American energy."

"It's going to be a great time to start their careers,” he added.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Only Murders in the Building': Mike Pence shares his campaign picks