JD Vance Condemned for Attacking Elderly Americans Protesting Social Security Cuts: ‘Don’t You All Have Jobs?
- Alien On Earth
- Mar 19
- 3 min read
Vice President JD Vance has ignited a firestorm of criticism following his dismissive remarks directed at elderly Americans protesting proposed Social Security cuts during a recent visit to Bay City, Michigan. The incident, which occurred at a manufacturing plant where Vance was promoting President Trump's economic agenda, has drawn sharp condemnation from various quarters, with critics accusing him of callousness and a profound lack of empathy.
The scene unfolded as Vance arrived at Vantage Plastics, where he was met by a determined group of protesters, predominantly senior citizens, voicing their concerns about the future of Social Security. Waving signs emblazoned with messages like "Protect Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security" and "Fascists Not Welcome in Michigan," the protesters sought to make their voices heard amidst growing anxieties about potential cuts to vital social programs.
Instead of engaging with their concerns, Vance chose to mock the protesters, suggesting they were idle individuals with nothing better to do.1 His remarks, captured on video and widely circulated online, included a flippant question: "I'm sure all of us saw there were a few protesters outside. And I can't be the only person wondering, you know, it's a cool afternoon, on a Friday, and don't you all have jobs?"
This dismissive attitude has been met with fierce backlash, with many accusing Vance of being out of touch with the realities faced by older Americans. Critics on social media platforms like Bluesky lambasted Vance's comments, with one user, who was reportedly escorted out of the event, questioning the hypocrisy of his statement, given the diverse work schedules and retirement statuses of the protesters. The user's response, "Like 2nd [shift]? 3rd? Splits? Part-time? Retired? Hypocrite, what about his invite-only crowd?" succinctly captured the sentiment of many who felt Vance's remarks were both insensitive and condescending.
The timing of Vance's comments is particularly significant, as they come amidst a broader debate about the future of Social Security and Medicare. The Trump administration's proposed cuts to these programs, driven in part by figures like Elon Musk, whose Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) has advocated for substantial reductions, have fueled widespread anxiety among older Americans. Musk’s often bizarre and factually incorrect statements regarding social security, such as the claim that it's a ploy to get undocumented immigrants to vote, have further exacerbated these concerns. It is important to note that undocumented immigrants are ineligible to vote or receive social security benefits.2
Moreover, Vance's defense of the Trump administration's economic policies, including the implementation of tariffs on goods from Canada, China, and Mexico, has also come under scrutiny. Critics argue that these tariffs are placing a significant financial burden on American households, with estimates from Yale University's Budget Lab suggesting that they could cost families an additional $1,600 to $2,000 per year.
While Vance attempted to downplay the impact of these tariffs, asserting that they would not affect companies producing domestically, his veiled threats to businesses relying on imports have raised concerns about the administration's protectionist approach. His statement, "Our administration’s plan is to make it easier and more affordable to make things within the United States. If you invest in America, in American jobs, in American workers, in American businesses, you’re going to be rewarded. We’re going to cut your taxes, slash regulations, and reduce energy costs. But if you try to undercut us and build outside of our borders, then President Trump’s administration has got nothing for you," has been interpreted by some as a warning to businesses to align with the administration's agenda.
The incident has reignited a national conversation about the treatment of older Americans and the importance of protecting vital social programs. It has also highlighted the growing divide between the Trump administration and its critics, particularly on issues related to economic policy and social welfare. The outrage sparked by Vance's remarks underscores the deep anxieties and concerns that many Americans have about the future of Social Security and the direction of the country.
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