VP JD Vance Shrugs Off Boos from DC Elites at Kennedy Center
Vice President JD Vance and his wife, Usha, remained composed despite facing boos from elite Washington, D.C., attendees at the Kennedy Center on Thursday evening.
A viral video shared by The Guardian’s Andrew Roth captured the moment as the couple took their seats in the box tier during a symphony performance.
While some audience members jeered and shouted remarks referencing January 6th, Vance responded with a casual smile, a wave, and a sip of wine, showing no signs of concern.
Boos for JD Vance as he enters tonight’s concert at the Kennedy Center pic.twitter.com/IWTsJUWjCR
— Andrew Roth (@Andrew__Roth) March 13, 2025
A Cool Response to a Heated Crowd
Despite audible remarks such as “You ruined this place!” and “Kill that light!”, the vice president and his wife continued their conversation as if unfazed by the commotion.
Once the performance began, the hostility subsided, and the couple remained for the entire concert.
The evening’s program featured the National Symphony Orchestra performing works by Igor Stravinsky and Dmitri Shostakovich, with violinist Leonidas Kavakos delivering a stirring rendition of Violin Concerto No. 2 by Shostakovich.
Trump’s Influence on the Kennedy Center
The Kennedy Center has been a focal point of political debate in recent months.
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump dismissed all 31 trustees, aiming to reshape the institution and eliminate what he perceived as left-leaning influence.
I knew he’d comment on these socks 🤣 https://t.co/VNYxgF49Ti
— JD Vance (@JDVance) March 12, 2025
His administration appointed Richard Grenell, a former Trump official, as interim executive director of the center, further solidifying the president’s stance on the venue’s future.
A Lighthearted Moment in the Oval Office
Earlier that same day, Vance made headlines for a more humorous reason.
During an Oval Office meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin, Trump momentarily shifted focus from economic discussions to compliment Vance’s attire—specifically his shamrock-patterned socks.
“I love these socks! What’s with these socks?” Trump joked, prompting laughter from those in the room.
Vance later posted the moment on the X platform with a laughing emoji, writing, “I knew he’d comment on these socks.”
I had a wonderful time with @SLOTUS this morning at the Vice Presidential Residence, where we hosted Taoiseach Martin and his wife for a St. Patrick’s Day breakfast.
Ireland is a great ally and friend of the United States, and we look forward to having them back next year! pic.twitter.com/L7YZFsKUYX
— Vice President JD Vance (@VP) March 12, 2025
Before the meeting, the vice president and his wife had welcomed Martin and his spouse to the Naval Observatory, the official vice presidential residence.
During the gathering, Vance playfully remarked that the shamrock socks were in honor of Irish-American relations.
Strengthening U.S.-Ireland Relations
The meeting also touched on the deep historical ties between the U.S. and Ireland, including America’s role in facilitating peace efforts in Northern Ireland.
Martin acknowledged the significance of the long-standing relationship between the two nations, highlighting the importance of ongoing diplomatic collaboration.
While the Kennedy Center controversy sparked debate, Vance’s lighthearted moment in the Oval Office showcased another side of his vice presidency—one that blends political resilience with a touch of humor.
