Photo of JD Vance in Drag Creates Political Firestorm

Written by Kathrine Frich

Aug.12 - 2024 8:48 PM CET

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Photo: Shutterstock
Photo: Shutterstock
The image, which shows Vance in drag with a wig, was posted on X.

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A recently surfaced photograph of JD Vance, Donald Trump's running mate for Vice President, has ignited controversy among conservative circles.

Criticized LGBTQ+

The image, which shows Vance in drag with a wig, was posted on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday and has since garnered over 10 million views.

The photo's release is particularly provocative given Vance’s staunch conservative stance on issues like marriage and abortion.

Vance, a vocal advocate for traditional values, has often criticized LGBTQ+ rights and has positioned himself against progressive social policies.

The origins of the photo have become a subject of debate. According to sources, the image was allegedly taken at a Halloween party in 2012 by a student.

Stolen From Facebook

Travis Whitfill, who claims to have discovered the photo, stated that it was stolen from Facebook and later circulated among friends before reaching the public domain.

Whitfill provided the image to podcast host Matt Bernstein, who shared it on social media.

While a spokesperson for Vance did not dispute the authenticity of the photo, they declined to offer further comment.

The image's timing and context have fueled speculation about its impact on Vance's public image and campaign. For conservative voters, this photo of Vance dressed in women’s clothing could be seen as at odds with his public persona and political platform.