Ohio Sen. JD Vance, the Republican vice presidential nominee, recently criticized educators, particularly Randi Weingarten, head of the American Federation of Teachers, for not having children of their own. Vance made these remarks at a Center for Christian Virtue leadership forum in October 2021, suggesting that those without children are trying to brainwash kids. He also targeted Weingarten specifically, saying she should have children of her own if she wants to influence young minds.
Vance’s comments drew criticism from VP Kamala Harris’ campaign, who amplified the remarks, and resurfaced earlier comments where Vance referred to Harris as a “childless cat lady” who wants to make the country miserable. Weingarten responded to Vance’s remarks calling them sad and insulting, while the National Education Association President Becky Pringle accused Vance and former President Trump of lacking respect for educators and pushing an extreme agenda.
Vance is not the first Republican to disparage Weingarten for not having children, as Sen. Tom Cotton and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene have also made similar remarks. Vance’s spokesperson defended his comments, stating that he will continue to speak out against left-wing indoctrination in schools. The teachers union directed inquiries to Weingarten’s statements, where she called Vance’s comments gross and insulting to modern families and teachers who dedicate their lives to serving students.
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