This statement followed the resurfacing of a 2021 podcast interview Vance gave to Jack Murphy, known for making misogynistic comments.In that interview, Vance discussed how past waves of Italian, Irish, and German immigrants in the 19th century were associated with crime spikes.
When questioned about the interview by a New York Times reporter, Vance reiterated his belief that “ethnic enclaves” continue to drive up crime rates today. He linked this to “massive amounts of illegal immigration,” which he claimed creates “ethnic conflict” and elevates crime.
Vance further argued that modern immigrants do not assimilate into a “common American culture” as they once did, a lack of assimilation he views as potentially dangerous. However, he did not clarify what he considers the “common American culture” to be, given America’s diversity and regional differences.
Drawing on his personal life, Vance mentioned his wife, Usha, the daughter of Indian immigrants, as an example of successful assimilation. He advocated for an immigration policy that encourages assimilation, stating, “No matter where you come from, you can become an American, but only if we have an immigration policy that promotes assimilation.”
He added, “I’m married to the daughter of South Asian immigrants. One of the reasons we have such a wonderful and successful marriage is because we both very much feel like America is our home—like our children belong here.”
Critics, including Maya May from the anti-MAGA Super PAC, The Lincoln Project, condemned Vance’s comments as racist. May argued that using the term “ethnic enclave” instead of “ghetto” did not make Vance’s statements less offensive.
Research contradicts Vance’s claims, with studies indicating that immigrants are less likely to commit violent crimes than native-born Americans. Additionally, data from Pew Research shows that both property and violent crime rates have been declining since the 1990s, challenging the notion that increased immigration leads to crime spikes.
During the event in Milwaukee, Vance addressed the local police association, praising their work during the recent Republican National Convention and expressing strong support for law enforcement.
The event also saw a minor incident involving a journalist. A campaign staffer also reportedly ordered a journalist to delete a photo of Diet Mountain Dew being brought out before the event. It’s been reported in recent months that the diet soda is Vance’s drink of choice. Jason Calvi, a politics reporter for Milwaukee’s Fox affiliate station, said on X that he refused to delete the snap despite being threatened with removal from the event.
He was ultimately allowed to stay, he posted. “When I refused and explained that as a journalist I wasn’t going to delete a photo, and I wasn’t going to bullied, the campaign aide left the space to apparently have me kicked out,” explained Calvi. “Then, a more senior campaign staffer came over and explained they wouldn’t kick me out.
Source : Times of India
