Vance drops 'bullshit' at Kansas rally after Montana heckling

Vice President JD Vance used the phrase 'fat load of bullshit' during a rally in Topeka, Kansas, on Monday. The remark came as he addressed a crowd that had just drowned out a heckler shouting, 'You're a war criminal!' Vance told the audience that Democrats only interrupt open debates because their message is weak. He followed the expletive by telling the crowd, 'Excuse my language, for the kids.' He then pointed at the heckler and said, 'He's out of here!'

The Kansas stop followed a Monday event in Montana where Vance called interrupting protesters 'a few yahoos.' Politico reports that Vance has been testing this more aggressive linguistic approach at recent midterm election rallies. The publication notes that he has not yet found the right tone for the tactic.

Conservatives told Politico that the strategy feels forced. One prominent commentator, speaking anonymously, argued that American voters can spot fake authenticity. The commentator noted that President Trump curses because it is his natural speaking style. In contrast, Vance appears to be performing the act of cursing. The source compared Vance to a bad comedian who signals a joke is coming by putting his thumb on it, as if saying 'Usha wouldn't want me saying this.'

Maura Gillespie, a Republican communications strategist, said swearing can make politicians appear more relatable and passionate. She noted that she previously worked for former House Speaker John Boehner. Gillespie warned that if the language feels scripted, it creates a problem. She stated that inauthenticity causes the tactic to backfire with voters.

Vance's comments in Kansas came after he described the local upbringing as similar to his own. The crowd chanted 'USA! USA!' to drown out the heckler before Vance delivered his response. He described the interruption as the only chance Democrats have to shut down debate.

The vice president has used this potty-mouth approach repeatedly in recent weeks. Critics on social media suggested that the 'fat load of BS' lives in the White House. Vance continued his speech after the initial outburst, maintaining the persona of a frustrated but candid leader.

The rallies in Montana and Kansas marked the latest chapter in Vance's effort to add edge to his public persona. The reaction from conservative insiders suggests the strategy is still evolving. Gillespie said her concern is that the scripted feel of the swearing undermines the intended effect of passion.