Vice President JD Vance traveled to Rome, New York, on Monday alongside President Donald Trump to rally Republican voters on the eve of crucial elections across the Empire State. The visit aimed to bolster two Republican candidates: Anthony Constantino, seeking to fill the congressional seat vacated by Rep. Elise Stefanik, and Kailee Buller, who is challenging incumbent Rep. John Mannion.
The vice president opened his remarks with a lighthearted story about his family, a characteristic feature of his public appearances. Vance recounted a recent lesson in charitable giving that did not unfold quite as he had intended.
He had asked his daughter, who will turn five in December, to select some of her own toys to donate to children in need. The instruction was clear and simple. However, the outcome proved both amusing and instructive.
“I’d like you to identify maybe a couple of toys you’d like to donate here,” Vance told his daughter. Her response demonstrated a certain creativity in interpretation. She returned with two toys belonging to her brother.
The vice president shared his reaction with the assembled crowd. “I realized that despite my best efforts, ladies and gentlemen, I have apparently raised a Democrat, stealing her brother’s toys to give to somebody else.” The audience responded with laughter and applause at the self-deprecating humor woven with political commentary.
Vance quickly transitioned from the personal anecdote to the political mission at hand. “And that’s what we’ve got to do in just one day is beat the Democrats and win for America,” he declared.
The vice president concluded his address with an emphatic call to action for Republican voters. “We are fighting for people who love the United States of America, not those who hate it,” Vance stated. “Get out there and let them know that we are gonna send a message that America belongs to those who love it, not to those who hate it.”
Tuesday’s elections in New York extend beyond congressional races. Voters across the state will decide the gubernatorial contest between incumbent Kathy Hochul and Republican challenger Bruce Blakeman. The attorney general’s office is also at stake, with incumbent Letitia James facing Republican challenger Samantha Komatireddy.
The Trump administration has made these New York races a priority, deploying its highest-ranking officials to energize the Republican base in a state where the party hopes to make significant gains. All 435 House seats are on the ballot nationwide, and Republicans view several New York districts as competitive opportunities that could influence the balance of power in Congress.
The vice president’s appearance in Rome represented one stop in a broader campaign swing through contested areas of New York, where both parties have invested considerable resources in what many observers consider unexpectedly competitive races.
Related: Federal Judge Dismisses Charges Against Former FBI Officials in Hunter Biden Case
