Vance compares Ohio State loss to GOP midterm results
The vice president used a football metaphor to address political criticism following the election, drawing a direct comparison to his alma mater’s 41-28 defeat.
By Giulia Donovan ·
Vice President JD Vance drew attention to his Ohio State University background on Monday when he compared the Republican Party’s midterm performance to the Buckeyes’ recent football defeat. During a press meeting, Vance referred to the election as a "devastating loss" before clarifying he was discussing the team that lost 41-28 to Oregon on Saturday.
He stated that the result triggered "a lot of staff infighting and questions about reshuffling." Vance admitted that a conversation exists about whether the No. 2 position has the capacity to lead, noting that many critics are unfairly attacking the team leader despite a victory two years prior. He expressed confidence in backup quarterback Luke Fahey, predicting the team would make an amazing turn.
The comment marked another public moment where Vance’s connection to the university became a focal point. In April 2025, he fumbled the national championship trophy during a White House celebration. The awkwardness of that event is now being revisited by political opponents. Senator-elect Abdul El-Sayed of Michigan, a graduate of the University of Michigan, mocked Vance by noting the irony of his constitutional obligation to swear El-Sayed into office. El-Sayed described the moment as "Wolverine 1, Buckeyes 0."
The midterm elections resulted in a loss for the vice president’s party. Vance’s remarks on Monday served to bridge the gap between athletic failure and political setback. He framed the recent results as a temporary setback for a team that previously secured a major victory. The comments were made during a scheduled interaction with reporters focused on the administration’s agenda.
