Senator JD Vance (R-Ohio) took issue with CNN’s Brianna Keilar on Thursday after she described him as an “imperfect messenger” for criticizing Minnesota Governor Tim Walz’s (D) military background.
Keilar, speaking on CNN’s “Inside Politics,” addressed the ongoing discussion about Walz’s military credentials following his selection as Vice President Harris’s running mate on the Democratic ticket. She pointed out that Vance’s designation as a “combat correspondent” during his Marine deployment in Iraq might be misleading, as his role was actually that of a public affairs specialist who did not engage in combat. This, she suggested, might make Vance less credible in challenging Walz’s record.
Senator JD Vance defends his military service against CNN anchor’s critique
Luis Agostini, a public information officer at the DEA’s Chicago office, criticized Keilar’s comments on X, prompting a response from Vance. He condemned Keilar’s remarks as “shameful,” arguing that they unfairly disparaged an entire Military Occupational Specialty (MOS).
Vance fired back on social media, stating, “It’s easy to sit in the safety of a CNN studio and belittle the service of many who risked their lives.”
The Hill has reached out to CNN for a response to Vance’s critique.
Mediaite mentioned that Keilar, whose husband is an active-duty Green Beret, is familiar with military life. She questioned Vance’s criticisms of Walz, who served 24 years in the National Guard, and reflected on the broader notion of service, emphasizing that military sacrifice extends beyond just combat roles.
Vance has accused Walz of “stolen valor,” claiming that Walz exaggerated his military rank and falsely suggested he served in combat. At a campaign event in Michigan, Vance questioned Walz’s military service, stating, “When were you ever in war?” and criticized Walz for allegedly lying about his military experience.
