The Democratic National Committee has criticized Vice President JD Vance for fishing with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy during an official trip to the United Kingdom, accusing him of mixing leisure with diplomatic duties and using public resources for personal outings. The incident drew attention after reports surfaced that Lammy did not acquire the proper fishing license, prompting the British Foreign Office to address the oversight. Republicans swiftly defended Vance, dismissing the attacks as trivial and politically motivated, while highlighting the vice president's commitment to balancing family time with his official responsibilities.
The DNC's press release accused Vance of indulging in luxury vacations and neglecting pressing domestic issues such as inflation and cuts to health care and food assistance. The criticism extended to other personal activities, including a brief visit to U.S. troops and family outings that required special accommodations from security personnel. Vance responded to the scrutiny by emphasizing the importance of family time and maintaining a balance between his public duties and personal life.
This latest exchange reflects ongoing tensions between Democrats and Republicans over the conduct and priorities of senior officials, with each side seeking to frame Vance's actions in the context of broader political and economic challenges facing American families.