Vice President JD Vance responded this week to comments made by former White House Press Secretary Jen Psaki, who suggested that his wife, Usha Vance, needed to be “saved” from him. The remark, made on a political podcast, sparked anger from many conservatives and prompted a strong public response from Vance during a press interaction in Israel.
Vance, who has been in the Middle East to support talks around a ceasefire and hostage release deal, was asked by a Fox News reporter about Psaki’s comments. He laughed at first, then called the remarks “disgraceful” and praised his wife for standing with him during the visit.
“She can speak for herself,” Vance said. “I am very lucky to have a wonderful wife. I hope that my wife feels the same way about me. I’m very lucky to go on this journey with a very loving wife. We’re going to keep on serving the country together.”
🚨 REPORTER: Former WH press secretary Jen Psaki said your wife needs to be “saved” from you.
JD VANCE: 😂
REPORTER: How do you feel about that?
VANCE: It’s disgraceful – but of course, the second lady can speak for herself. I am very lucky to have a wonderful wife. I at least… pic.twitter.com/msZMUZBVV9
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) October 23, 2025
Psaki’s original comments were made during an episode of the “I’ve Had It” podcast. In the episode, she described Vance as “scarier” than President Donald Trump and joked about his wife being under duress. “I always wonder what’s going on in the mind of his wife,” Psaki said. “Like, are you OK? Please blink four times. We’ll come over here. We’ll save you.”
Psaki also labeled Vance a “Manchurian Candidate” and claimed he was overly ambitious and willing to say anything to gain political power. The description for the episode echoed the same sentiment, adding, “Usha Vance, please blink twice if you need help.”
Critics of Psaki’s statements pointed out that such remarks would be considered unacceptable if made about a Democratic public figure and their spouse. The suggestion that a woman in a public role is somehow being manipulated or abused—without evidence—raises broader concerns about how political spouses are treated depending on their party affiliation.
Supporters of the Vice President quickly came to his defense online. One widely shared comment said, “Nothing baffles the liberal women more than a happy marriage,” summing up the belief among many conservatives that Psaki’s remarks were rooted in personal bias against traditional family values.
The incident also highlights a growing trend in political discourse where personal attacks are used to target opponents rather than debating policy. Psaki, who served under President Joe Biden and later became a media commentator, has often used her platform to go after members of the Trump administration. But critics argue that her recent remarks cross a line—not only for their tone, but for targeting someone who is not a public official.
Vance’s response—measured but firm—reflects his broader political approach. While often seen as a rising star within the America First movement, he has worked to present himself as a steady and thoughtful leader, especially in foreign policy settings like the current Israel trip. His decision to bring his wife along may have been symbolic, reinforcing a message of unity and shared service.
This episode also touches on deeper issues of individual liberty and respect for personal relationships in political life. The suggestion that Usha Vance needs to be “saved” undermines her autonomy and implies that her choices are not her own. For a party that often speaks about empowering women, the irony of such a statement was not lost on observers.
As the 2026 midterm elections approach, and with speculation already rising about the 2028 presidential race, figures like Vance are likely to face increasing scrutiny. The response to Psaki’s comments may serve as a reminder that personal attacks often backfire, especially when they appear to dismiss the independence and dignity of a political figure’s family.
In the end, Vice President Vance’s message was clear: “We’re going to keep on serving the country together.” For now, the Second Lady appears to be doing just fine.
