Josh Weiner
JD Vance, Vice President of the United States is once again making headlines — but not for reasons that inspire confidence in his ability to serve on the world stage. His recent remarks referring to Chinese citizens as “peasants” have ignited widespread backlash, casting serious doubt on his judgment, diplomatic sensibility, and fitness for high office.
At a time when global cooperation is more crucial than ever, and when the relationship between the United States and China is complex and delicate, Vance’s comments come off as not only offensive but deeply irresponsible. Using derogatory language to describe an entire nation of over 1.4 billion people — many of whom are highly educated, innovative, and industrious — is a gross mischaracterization and a diplomatic failure.
While Vance positions himself as a populist defender of American values, such rhetoric doesn’t reflect strength or patriotism — it reflects ignorance and a dangerous lack of respect for global realities. China is the second-largest economy in the world, a major trading partner, and a geopolitical power. Reducing its people to caricatures not only insults a nation but also undermines America’s image abroad.
The role of a U.S. Vice President — potentially a heartbeat away from the presidency — demands a level of maturity, cultural awareness, and strategic thinking that Vance has repeatedly failed to demonstrate. Rather than offering thoughtful foreign policy perspectives, Vance often leans into inflammatory soundbites that play well with certain domestic audiences but embarrass the United States on the international stage.
Critics from both sides of the aisle have condemned Vance’s tone-deaf and inflammatory language, calling for accountability and more responsible leadership. America needs representatives who can foster diplomacy, not division. If this is how JD Vance communicates before stepping into a formal leadership role, what can the world expect if he’s handed the Vice Presidency?
Words matter — especially from those who seek the highest offices in the land. JD Vance’s words have shown us who he is.
