JD Vance says ‘on-the-job training’ has prepared him for presidency – and everyone made the same point

Speculation continues to circulate online over the health of US president Donald Trump - what with dark bruising being spotted on his hand earlier this week and the convicted felon having no public appearances this weekend - and now vice president JD Vance has talked about his readiness to take on the top job should a “terrible tragedy” occur.

In an interview with USA Today on Wednesday, the man who is “a heartbeat away from the presidency” praised the “good on-the-job training” he’s received over the past 200 days as he was asked about his readiness to become president if required.

He added: “I’ll also say that the president in incredibly good health, he’s got incredible energy, and while most of the people who work around the president of the United States are younger than he is, I think that we find that he actually is the last person who goes to sleep, he’s the last person making phone calls at night, he is the first person who wakes up and the first person making phone calls in the morning."

“Yes, things can always happen. Yes, terrible tragedies happen, but I feel very confident the president of the United States is in good shape, is going to serve out the remainder of his term and do great things for the American people, and if, God forbid, there is a terrible tragedy, I can’t think of better on-the-job training than what I’ve gotten over the last 200 days.”

Except, social media users were quick to question the “training” Vance has received as VP, given he has already been on several vacations during his time in office:

“He’s been on a perpetual vacation,” joked one Twitter/X user

Another claimed he’s been on vacation for “half” of those 200 days:

And a few wondered exactly how many vacations he’s had already:

Quite a lot.

Vance’s prolific holidaying has so far included a break in the Cotswolds, kayaking in Ohio, a trip to Greenland and a family visit to Disneyland – despite previously branding Disney “woke” and claiming it has “declared war on American’s children”.

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The remarks by Vance highlight a larger issue in American politics: the preparedness of vice presidents who could assume the presidency at any moment. While he confidently points to his “on-the-job training,” critics argue that experience as a senator and a short stint as vice president hardly compare to the complexities of leading a superpower in crisis. The presidency demands deep knowledge of foreign policy, economic management, and the ability to make rapid decisions under extreme pressure—skills that many doubt Vance has fully developed.

Social media’s reaction underscores how public perception can quickly undermine political statements. Instead of instilling confidence, Vance’s comments became the subject of memes and mockery. This points to a growing distrust among citizens who feel politicians are disconnected from reality, especially when vacation photos surface during times of heightened political tension. For many Americans, the optics of a vice president relaxing abroad while the president faces health questions feels tone-deaf.

There is also the question of loyalty and ambition. By repeatedly assuring the public of Trump’s good health while simultaneously emphasizing his own preparation, Vance treads a fine line. Supporters might see this as prudence, but critics interpret it as opportunism, preparing the stage for his own ascension should circumstances allow. It is a reminder that the office of the vice president is both supportive and strategic, always waiting for the possibility of succession.

Observers have also noted the contrast between Vance’s rhetoric and his actions. His vacations, while not unusual for politicians, clash with the image of constant readiness he seeks to project. Leadership requires presence, and frequent absences give opponents ammunition to question his dedication. In today’s political climate, appearances matter as much as policies, and the perception of idleness can be damaging.

At the same time, Vance’s defenders argue that time off is essential for mental clarity, and that his travels with family make him more relatable to ordinary Americans. They claim his remarks about training should not be judged against vacations, but against the actual responsibilities he has carried out as vice president. This ongoing debate reflects the polarized lens through which every statement by a political figure is scrutinized.

Ultimately, the discussion sparked by Vance’s interview is less about his personal vacations and more about the fragile state of leadership perception in the United States. Americans want reassurance, stability, and confidence in their leaders, especially during times when rumors about the president’s health dominate headlines. Whether Vance’s words provided that reassurance—or further doubt—is a matter still playing out in the public sphere.