U.S. Vice-President JD Vance’s security team arranged for the water level of an Ohio river to be increased last week to facilitate a kayaking excursion in celebration of his 41st birthday on August 2nd. The U.S. Secret Service, in coordination with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, made the request to elevate the water flow of the Little Miami River to ensure a safe environment for motorized watercraft and emergency personnel while safeguarding the vice-president, who resides in Cincinnati.
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ Louisville District confirmed the temporary rise in outflows from the Caesar Creek Lake to the Little Miami River was specifically done to support the safe navigation of U.S. Secret Service personnel. This action adhered to operational standards and was deemed routine practice. The Corps stated that the increased water flow did not have any adverse impacts on the surrounding water levels, with downstream stakeholders being informed in advance of the slight outflow adjustment made on August 1st.
Vance’s spokesperson, Taylor Van Kirk, mentioned that the vice-president was not informed about the river level being raised, highlighting that protective measures are often implemented by the Secret Service without the knowledge of Vance or his team. Criticism arose from Richard W. Painter, former chief White House ethics lawyer under President George W. Bush, condemning the use of taxpayer funds to elevate water levels for recreational purposes while budget cuts affected public services. Democratic House member Eric Swalwell humorously commented on the situation.
The incident drew parallels to a previous event involving Al Gore, a former Democratic vice-president and presidential candidate, who engaged in a similar river activity in 1999. Gore faced criticism for the release of water to raise the river level for a photo opportunity, despite his campaign denying his involvement in the decision. Vance, a native of Ohio, discussed his upbringing and political aspirations in a past interview with CBC before his entry into politics.
While on a recent trip to the UK, Vance engaged in fishing with British Foreign Secretary David Lammy at Chevening House in Sevenoaks, Kent. The vice-president’s travels have also included private tours of notable landmarks, drawing attention and some discontent from the public. Vance’s visit to Italy and India involved exclusive access to historical sites, prompting mixed reactions from tourists. Following his diplomatic meeting with Lammy in London, Vance embarked on a family vacation in the picturesque Cotswolds region of England.