This was a very good question.
Vice President JD Vance recently questioned the commitment of protesters who gathered outside his speech at a Bay City, Michigan manufacturing plant. Vance, who was accompanied by U.S. Small Business Administration Administrator Kelly Loeffler, took part in a tour of the Vantage Plastic facility before addressing the crowd on the Trump administration’s efforts to revitalize American manufacturing.
During his remarks, Vance acknowledged the protestors outside, remarking on their timing and questioning their work ethic. “We’re here at this fantastic event with a great company and hardworking individuals, and yet, there are a few protesters outside. It’s a little after noon on a Friday—don’t they have jobs?” Vance asked, drawing attention to the protesters’ presence in the middle of the workday. He further added, “One of the reasons we need to rebuild American manufacturing is to get these people back to work. It would benefit them and our entire country.”
Vance’s comments highlighted the broader message of his visit, which was to promote the Trump administration’s economic agenda. The focus of that agenda is bringing manufacturing jobs back to America, supporting businesses like Vantage Plastics, and reducing reliance on overseas labor. Vance emphasized that the policy of putting American workers first is key to a stronger economy. He pointed to President Trump’s tariffs on foreign goods as a mechanism to encourage companies to invest and produce in the U.S.
“President Trump’s economic policies are simple: if you invest in American jobs, we’ll reward you with lower regulations and tax cuts,” Vance shared on social media. “But if you build overseas, you’ll face the consequences.”
This encounter in Michigan was just one of several recent confrontations Vance has faced with protesters. The vice president was also booed at a National Symphony Orchestra performance in Washington, D.C., and confronted while skiing in Vermont. Despite the pushback, Vance remains committed to supporting policies that prioritize American workers and businesses.