Vance Defends Fat Joke About Conservative Commentator

Vice President J.D. Vance defended a personal joke he made about conservative commentator Marc Thiessen, framing it as permissible political humor amid a deeper policy rift over economic concerns and the U.S. approach to Iran. The exchange, which played out publicly on social media and in subsequent media appearances, highlights ongoing tensions within conservative circles.

The spat began on August 5 when Thiessen responded to a post by Turning Point USA spokesman Andrew Kolvet, who shared a college student's complaint that "a burrito shouldn't cost $20." Thiessen dismissed the concern, writing, "Cry me a river. The burritos in the college cafeteria are included in your meal plan." Hours later, Vice President Vance quote-tweeted Thiessen with a remark that appeared to reference Thiessen's weight: "I'm surprised to hear Mark say this. If you've ever met him in person, it's quite obvious the man has never missed a burrito."

Two days later, on August 6, Vance appeared on a Salem News Channel program and was asked if he regretted the comment. Vance said it was a joke and a way to "punch back," acknowledging it may not have been as charitable as it should have been. He defended the...