Middletown, Ohio, Reacts Coolly to JD Vance’s Vice Presidential Bid

As JD Vance approaches the historic moment of becoming the second-in-command to the President of the United States, his hometown of Middletown, Ohio, remains notably indifferent to the achievement. Despite the excitement typically accompanying such a milestone, the city has yet to fully embrace the political ascent of its most famous son.

In the weeks leading up to Vance’s inauguration, Middletown's streets are alive with holiday cheer, but there is little indication that the town of 50,000 residents is preparing to celebrate his newfound political stature. Local businesses are focused on the city’s renowned Christmas lights display, and there is no visible signage marking Vance’s rise to the second highest office in the land.

This lack of recognition even prompted Vance's mother, Beverly Aikins, to attend a recent city council meeting, where she expressed her frustration. "I just think it would be nice if we could acknowledge that this is his hometown and put up some signs," she said. The city council was slow to respond, waiting a full month before acknowledging Vance and his vice-presidential selection on social media. While council members expressed plans to install street signs in Vance’s honor, some, like local supporter and council member, found the delay "unacceptable."

The tepid response to Vance’s rise is partly rooted in local perceptions of his political career. While Vance gained national fame through his 2016 book Hillbilly Elegy, in which he chronicled his tough upbringing in Middletown, many residents feel disconnected from his success. Dr. Celeste Didlick-Davis, head of the local NAACP branch, questioned Vance’s impact on the community. “You’ve had two years as a senator – have we had one visit that benefits someone?” she remarked, suggesting that Vance's political career has not translated into tangible improvements for Middletown.

Vance’s journey to the vice presidency began with his success in the Senate, following support from conservative billionaires, but his political positions, including his strong stance on immigration, have alienated many residents. Business owner Adriane Scherrer noted growing concerns among the immigrant community, expressing fear over potential deportations under the new administration. This, along with other controversial stances, has left some locals uneasy about Vance’s leadership.

Despite this, there are still residents who see Vance’s rise as a source of pride. Savannah Woolum, a Vance supporter, emphasized the hope his success gives to small-town America. “It’s opening a lot of eyes to realizing that you can come from a small town like he did and make it as far as he has,” she said, even acknowledging that celebrating him might alienate those who did not vote for him.

While Vance’s hometown remains divided, Middletown high school’s marching band and cheerleaders have been invited to the inauguration, a gesture that has drawn some attention and financial support from the city. Mayor Elizabeth Slamka confirmed that plans for city-wide recognition of Vance’s achievement are in the works, though the sentiment in Middletown remains mixed. Many locals, especially those concerned about potential cuts to education and healthcare under the incoming administration, worry that the city may continue to be overlooked and underserved.

As Vance prepares to take office, the lingering questions about his connection to Middletown reflect broader concerns about his political trajectory and its implications for his hometown.