This weekend, Vice President JD Vance found himself in the spotlight while visiting Disneyland with his family, drawing attention from both protesters and California Governor Gavin Newsom.
A video surfaced of Vance enjoying time at the Southern California theme park, accompanied by a message that mentioned, “Enjoy your family time, @jdvance. The family you’re torn certainly won’t.” This post made waves on social media over the weekend.
Following reports of his presence, demonstrators assembled outside the gates of the self-proclaimed “happiest place on earth” on Friday and Saturday.
There was another protest in Anaheim, coinciding with Vance’s trip, especially pertinent given the recent surge of migrant-related incidents in the area.
On Saturday, a small group also gathered at a nearby hotel in Grand California, where Vance was reportedly staying. Multiple sources covered the unfolding events.
Some among the protesters waved Mexican flags, expressing their sentiments loudly.
It’s worth noting that Vance’s visit, which included his wife Usha and at least two of their children, was characterized as a personal outing rather than a political engagement.
The backdrop of his trip was particularly somber, as it came a day after violent attacks on a farm in Ventura County, resulting in one fatality and several serious injuries.
Local Democrats voiced their dissent, with prominent figures urging protests directed at Vance and his family.
One Orange County supervisor, Vicente Salmiento, shared his frustrations about the Vice President’s visit: “I’m mad at the visit because so many families are terrified by federal policies,” he stated.
In contrast, local Republicans expressed a desire for constructive dialogue instead of protests, emphasizing the importance of community engagement.
Don Wagner, a Republican colleague, commented, “I think it’s an opportunity to throw a wider net rather than throw stones,” suggesting that the focus should be on broader issues rather than targeting Vance’s family.
On a lighter note, Vance and his family arrived via John Wayne Airport on Friday. Meanwhile, the Second Lady was at Camp Pendleton, where she participated in summer reading events with military children.
Vance’s motorcade was quite a sight in the park, indicating a significant security presence throughout their outing. Video footage even captured him exploring Disneyland’s Bayou Country on Saturday morning.
