Pro-Ukraine protesters rally against JD Vance in Vermont after Oval Office clash

A Waitsfield protest against the Trump-Vance administration had been planned earlier, but many signs referenced the White House dispute and Russia’s war in Ukraine.

Governor urges respect amid protests

Ahead of Vance’s visit, Vermont Governor Phil Scott urged residents to be respectful toward the vice president and his family.

Scott, a Republican who has distanced himself from Trump, said, “I welcome the vice president and his family to Vermont and hope they enjoy their weekend here. It’s no surprise they chose Vermont—we’ve had a lot of snow this winter, which has been good for our economy.”

He added, as per BBC, “I hope Vermonters remember the vice president is here on a family trip with his young children and, while we may not always agree, we should be respectful. Please join me in welcoming them to Vermont and hoping they have an opportunity to experience what makes our state, and Vermonters, so special.”

Vance, who has three young children with his wife Usha, has not publicly commented on the protests.

Counter-protesters supporting Trump and Vance were also reportedly present.

(With inputs from BBC)