Ohio Senator JD Vance recently made headlines when he visited a popular cheesesteak spot in Philadelphia and questioned the employees about their aversion to Swiss cheese. The Republican vice presidential nominee’s visit to Pat’s King of Steaks in North Philadelphia sparked a debate online, with some claiming it was a gaffe and others suggesting it was a throwback joke about John Kerry’s infamous cheesesteak order.
During his visit to the cheesesteak shop, Vance asked the workers why they were so selective about their cheeses, expressing his dislike for Swiss cheese. This interaction caught many Philadelphians off guard, with some finding it amusing and others finding it disrespectful. Despite the mixed reactions, Vance proceeded to order a „whiz wit,“ a cheesesteak with Cheez Whiz and fried onions, before signing autographs and taking photos with employees and supporters.
Vance’s inquiry about Swiss cheese at a Philadelphia cheesesteak shop is not unprecedented. In 2004, Democratic presidential nominee John Kerry made a similar request for Swiss cheese on his cheesesteak during his campaign. This decision was met with criticism from Philadelphia locals, who viewed it as an attempt to pander to voters without understanding the city’s culinary traditions.
The online reaction to Vance’s cheesesteak adventure was swift and varied. Democratic U.S. Representative Brendan Boyle criticized Vance’s actions, jokingly accusing him of committing a „crime against humanity.“ On the other hand, right-wing media personality Graham Allen defended Vance, suggesting that his question about Swiss cheese was a nod to Kerry’s previous misstep.
Social media users also weighed in on Vance’s visit, commenting on his overall demeanor and the photo-op that followed. Some found his expression to be „absolutely horrified“ when faced with Cheez Whiz, while others praised his willingness to engage with the community and participate in a local tradition.
In conclusion, JD Vance’s visit to a Philadelphia cheesesteak shop has sparked a lively debate online, with opinions divided on whether his inquiry about Swiss cheese was a gaffe or a deliberate reference to John Kerry’s past blunder. Regardless of the interpretation, Vance’s interaction with the employees and patrons at Pat’s King of Steaks has certainly left a lasting impression on both supporters and critics alike.