Vermont Residents Divided Over Protests During Vice President JD Vance’s Visit

WARREN, Vt. — As Vice President JD Vance sets out for a family ski trip this weekend, Vermont residents are split on whether to protest his visit. With social media platforms buzzing, many local activists are planning demonstrations against his stay at the Pitcher Inn, highlighting widespread discontent with his policies.

This heated discussion surrounding the Vice President has attracted attention from state officials, including Republican Gov. Phil Scott. In a statement released Thursday, Scott urged calmness and civility among Vermonters. “I hope Vermonters remember the Vice President is here on a family trip with his young children and, while we may not always agree, we should be respectful,” Scott commented, inviting residents to welcome the Vance family to Vermont.

Protest planning has gained traction in the Mad River Valley. Activist group Indivisible Mad River Valley has organized a rally at Mad River Green in Waitsfield for 9 a.m. Saturday, while a Facebook event has attracted over 1,700 “interested” responses. Other planned protests include a car caravan beginning at Shaw’s supermarket and demonstrations at the Sugarbush ski resort.

Supporters of protests argue they are exercising their First Amendment rights, while some residents express concern over the potential disruption to the Vice President’s family outing. Daniel Wetmore voiced his reservations on Montpelier’s Front Porch Forum, emphasizing, “The choice of Vermont is quite intentional… a media circus of demonstrations,” implicating that the White House could benefit from the controversy.

Conversely, residents like Catherine Beal have dismissed calls for a quiet response. “While tens of thousands lost their jobs and are trying to figure out their Plan Bs? No, we cannot let him relax and enjoy himself,” she remarked, underscoring her anger over current economic conditions tied to Vance’s policies.

The Vermont Republican Party took a different approach, announcing plans to send a welcome card to the Vice President, emphasizing a spirit of hospitality. Paul Dame, the party chair, expressed disappointment that protest plans altered Vance’s accommodations, stating, “There are hundreds of Vermonters out there who are welcoming, and we can show that.” More than 300 people had signed the online card for Vance, he noted.

In a related development, the Federal Aviation Administration has enforced temporary flight restrictions in Burlington‘s airspace in anticipation of Vance’s arrival and departure. This precaution underscores the increased scrutiny surrounding his visit amidst rising tensions and protests.

Meanwhile, Vance’s visit occurs shortly after he addressed the National Catholic Prayer Breakfast, discussing the role of faith in politics. He emphasized the importance of considering the common good, saying, “If the stock market is doing okay, but people are literally dying and losing years off of their life, then we have to do something.”

Vance’s political trajectory has been contentious, marked by a recent confrontational meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The exchange turned heated as Vance accused Zelenskyy of disrespecting former President Trump, igniting questions regarding U.S. involvement in Ukraine. Trump later commented on the discussion, criticizing Zelenskyy for his approach, which could further complicate diplomatic relations.

As Vance navigates his political career amidst protests at home and significant global events, his identity as Vice President continues to evolve. With strong stances and efforts to solidify his base, this Vermont visit reveals the complexities of his administration’s approach to both domestic and international issues.