JD Vance Blasts Kamala Harris Over Afghanistan Withdrawal; Claims She's 'Asleep at the Wheel'

Ohio Senator JD Vance didn't hold back when discussing Vice President Kamala Harris' response to the chaotic 2021 withdrawal from Afghanistan. His comments came after an "incident" during former President Donald Trump's visit to Arlington National Cemetery to commemorate the anniversary of a deadly suicide bombing in Kabul.

Contentious Remarks at Arlington National Cemetery

This "incident" at Arlington National Cemetery, where the Trump campaign and cemetery officials reportedly clashed over a campaign photographer's presence, sparked Vance's strong reaction. The disagreement appeared to stem from whether the photographer had proper permission to be there, highlighting tensions surrounding the former president's visit to honor the fallen service members.

Senator Vance's Outrage

In Erie, Pennsylvania, Senator Vance criticized Vice President Harris after a reporter inquired about the Arlington National Cemetery dispute. He pointed to the tragic death of 13 American service members during the withdrawal, implying that Harris's inaction warranted disdain. Vance didn't mince words when he said, "Three years ago, 13 brave, innocent Americans died, and they died because Kamala Harris refused to do her job, and there hasn't been a single investigation or a single firing." He further condemned Harris as "disgraceful" and asserted that the narrative should be how she was "so asleep at the wheel that she won't even do an investigation into what happened, and she wants to yell at Donald Trump because he showed up." Vance's fierce comments culminated in him telling Harris, "She can go to hell."

Defending his Statements

Despite the controversy his remarks stirred, Vance defended himself in Green Bay, Wisconsin, justifying his statements. He expressed frustration over what he perceived as the Harris campaign's attempts to politicize the Arlington National Cemetery incident, asserting that his emotions were a reaction to that.

Harris's Response

Kamala Harris addressed the Arlington National Cemetery incident and the anniversary of the Kabul bombing in a statement. She emphasized her commitment to caring for troops and their families, honoring their service and sacrifice. Harris reiterated President Biden's decision to end America's longest war as a courageous and right one, underscoring the complex geopolitical context surrounding the withdrawal from Afghanistan.

Investigations and Accountability

The fallout from the withdrawal has prompted investigations by both the Biden administration and Congress. Reports from the White House and State Department have partially implicated the Trump administration in the challenges faced during the withdrawal. This ongoing examination seeks to hold accountable those responsible for the chaotic exit.

The 2024 Political Landscape

Senator Vance's comments have reignited political tensions as the U.S. approaches another election cycle. The contrasts between his rhetoric and Harris' measured response underscore the different approaches taken by political figures in addressing complex international issues.

As the events unfold, it remains to be seen how these statements and ongoing investigations will shape the political discourse leading up to the 2024 election.