In his new book titled "Communion," Vice President JD Vance discussed a remark he made during his 2021 U.S. Senate campaign, referring to "childless cat ladies." He described the comment as "one of the dumbest" things he has ever said, according to NBC News. Vance made the statement during an appearance on "Tucker Carlson Tonight," where he criticized the influence of certain Democratic leaders, suggesting they lacked a direct stake in the country's future due to not having children. He specifically mentioned Kamala Harris, Pete Buttigieg, and Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez in this context.
Vance acknowledged the backlash from his comment, stating that it was provocative rather than constructive. He noted that the remark caused significant controversy at the time and later during a political campaign. In his book, he expressed regret, stating that he could have communicated his concerns about societal attitudes towards parenthood more effectively and with greater empathy for those unable to have children. Vance, who became a U.S. Senator in 2022 and later Vice President in 2025, reflected on the need to respect the dignity of all individuals, regardless of their parental status.