US VP JD Vance calls backlash to UFC slur disproportionate

Vice President JD Vance is facing criticism after defending the public reaction to a UFC fighter's derogatory remark about former First Lady Michelle Obama, calling the widespread outrage "totally disproportionate." The comments were made during Vance's appearance on "The Joe Rogan Experience" podcast, which was released on July 15, 2026.

The controversy stems from an incident at the Freedom 250 UFC event held on the White House South Lawn on June 14. After winning his match, fighter Josh Hokit addressed the crowd, stating, "Michelle Obama is a man. Am I right, America?" The remark, which echoed a long-debunked conspiracy theory, sparked immediate and widespread condemnation, including from UFC CEO Dana White, who called the comment "nasty and false."

During the podcast interview, host Joe Rogan, who was a referee at the event, asked Vance whether Hokit's comment or his fighting technique was more shocking. Vance replied that the fighter's armbar was more surprising, adding, "I work in politics, people say crazy stuff all the time." He expressed bewilderment that the incident became national news, stating, "I was like, 'What? An amped-up fighter told a joke after a fight? And...