Reaction was swift: commenters labeled the vice president "so selfish" and "out of touch," with one insisting, "He was elected to help Americans. He just wants to eat at the free buffet." Critics said the comments showed poor timing while many struggle financially.
Observers pointed to prior gaffes: Vance was previously slammed after criticizing yard signs and faced ridicule for a failed attempt at humor during a speech, moments that opponents say add to a pattern of missteps.