Republican vice presidential candidate JD Vance recently addressed the reported altercation at Arlington National Cemetery, dismissing it as a 'little disagreement' and attributing it to media sensationalism. Vance emphasized that the Trump campaign had been invited by some families of the 13 Americans who tragically lost their lives in the Kabul airport bombing during the US withdrawal from Afghanistan. He stated that the families wanted Donald Trump present and viewed his attendance as a gesture of support, rather than an insult to their loved ones' memories.
Vance praised President Trump for his unwavering support of veterans and contrasted this with what he perceived as Vice President Kamala Harris' lack of similar commitment. He expressed strong sentiments, including telling Harris to 'go to hell.'
Former President Trump, in a post on Truth Social, appeared to defend his campaign's actions by sharing a statement from the fallen soldiers' family members expressing approval. However, Arlington National Cemetery clarified that political campaign or election-related activities are prohibited within Army National Military Cemeteries by federal law.
In response to the incident, Harris campaign communications director Michael Tyler criticized Trump and his team, characterizing the situation as 'sad' and reflective of Trump's tendency to make everything about himself. Tyler also highlighted Trump's history of allegedly demeaning and degrading military servicemembers.