In September 2024, JD Vance was labeled as the worst vice presidential candidate in U.S. history, surpassing Sarah Palin, who held that title for years -- according to columnist Rex Huppke of USA Today.
Vance, known for his polarizing personality and a string of uncomfortable public appearances, has sparked growing concern among political observers, creating a hysterical firestorm of controversy.
Many have cited his offensive remarks and awkward interactions as major factors contributing to his unpopularity.
The decision to choose Vance as Donald Trump’s running mate has been met with criticism, with many pointing to his history of inappropriate comments and poor public engagement as evidence of his unsuitability for the role.
Huppke pointed out that Vance has a well-documented history of making controversial statements, particularly in past podcast appearances. In 2021, he made remarks suggesting that women who choose to focus on their careers rather than having children are opting for “a path to misery.”
These comments have resurfaced and drawn significant backlash, especially from women who feel marginalized by his rhetoric.
In addition to his comments about women, Vance has referred to individuals in derogatory terms, further damaging his public image. At a firefighters union meeting, he was booed for his remarks about "childless cat ladies," a phrase that offended many -- after being wildly blown out of proportion by the liberal media.
Vance's unwillingness to bow to the mob has made Vance a target for criticism across social and political circles.
Vance’s public interactions have also contributed to his growing unpopularity. He has frequently made awkward and uncomfortable remarks that fail to resonate with voters. For instance, during a visit to a Georgia doughnut shop, he had an awkward encounter with a patron, which quickly became the subject of ridicule online.
These "uncomfortable" moments have led some to describe Vance as “the guy nobody wants to get stuck next to” at social gatherings, Huppke theorized.
The same could be said of the characterization of Donald Trump for the last near-decade, but that didn't stop him from being beloved by those which Huppke would never associate with -- regular Americans.
ABC News noted that even Tim Kaine, who ran alongside Hillary Clinton in 2016, had a significantly higher favorability rating than Vance. The comparison of Vance to both Palin and Kaine has become a common refrain among political analysts, with some suggesting that the three should “hoist a beer” to celebrate Vance’s new status.
The decision to select Vance as Trump’s vice-presidential pick came after former Vice President Mike Pence refused to endorse Trump for re-election. Vance, in many ways, has been seen as a “replacement-Pence,” a role that some have described as “the saddest thing a person can be," said Huppke.
The columnist huffed that "He has been asked if he’d like to apologize for offensive past comments, but he won’t. Admitting any form of wrongdoing in Trump’s MAGA universe is strictly forbidden."
There truly is nothing more infuriating to the left than a political candidate that refuses to follow orders.
"Palin and Kaine had cringe-inducing moments, but they were nothing compared with Vance’s ongoing streak of insufferableness. He’s every office’s “one guy nobody likes.” He’s a shining example of Trump’s inability to make smart decisions. He is best forgotten," Huppke opined.
Huppke's crowning of Vance as the "worst" VP pick "in history" should be taken as an endorsement of Vance more than anything else.
