Vice President JD Vance has encountered widespread criticism following his remarks about Chinese citizens, referring to them as “peasants” during a recent appearance on Fox News. Observers highlighted the irony of his statement, considering Vance’s own well-documented background of growing up in poverty.
During an interview on “Fox & Friends,” Vance defended President Donald Trump’s tariff policies while discussing American economic independence from foreign imports, notably those from China.
“We borrow money from Chinese peasants to buy the things those Chinese peasants manufacture,” Vance stated, drawing immediate condemnation both domestically and internationally.
The Chinese government swiftly responded to Vance’s remarks. A foreign ministry spokesperson described the comments as “ignorant and impolite” during an official briefing, according to multiple reports. This incident has added tension to already strained U.S.-China relations amid ongoing trade disputes.
Chinese state media was critical of Vance’s language, characterizing American political leadership as “incompetent.”
The backlash is intensified by Vance’s personal history, which he detailed in his 2016 memoir “Hillbilly Elegy.” The book recounts his challenging upbringing in Middletown, Ohio, where he faced poverty and family issues. Critics suggest this makes his characterization of Chinese citizens particularly ironic.
The controversy also raises questions about Vance’s representation of Appalachian culture. While closely associated with Appalachia through his memoir, some regional advocates have questioned this connection, noting that Middletown, Ohio, where Vance grew up, is not part of the Appalachian region despite its proximity.
Critics also point out economic inaccuracies in Vance’s statement. China has advanced beyond an agrarian economy, becoming the world’s second-largest economy with significant developments in manufacturing, urbanization, and technology, including sectors like high-speed rail and electric vehicles.
This controversy unfolds amid the Trump administration’s push for new tariffs on Chinese imports. President Trump supports these measures to protect American manufacturing, while critics argue they could increase prices for American consumers and provoke retaliatory actions from Beijing.
China has promised to “fight to the end” against any new tariffs, describing U.S. trade policies as “bullying.” Analysts believe that Chinese leadership is preparing its citizens for possible economic repercussions while opposing U.S. pressure tactics.
This incident is the latest in a series of controversial statements from Vance, whose political views have shifted since the publication of his memoir. Previously critical of Trump, Vance worked in the technology sector with venture capitalist Peter Thiel, leading some to question his current populist stance.
Vance’s comments have also sparked reactions on Chinese social media, with some users calling for him to be barred from entering China.
“It is disgraceful for someone in such an important position within the US government to make statements like this,” one Weibo user remarked.