JD Vance, the Vice President of the United States, is set to vacation in the picturesque Cotswolds with his family this summer. Vance’s family—his wife Usha and their three young children—recently attempted to enjoy a summer vacation to visit Vermont. Unfortunately, they were met with frequent interruptions from angry, noisy mobs of road-occupying protesters. The protests featured signs telling Vance to go ski in Russia, an indication of just how unpopular Vance has become.
The Cotswolds, often dubbed the “English Hamptons” or “the Couttswolds,” has gained traction as a favored destination for affluent Americans seeking a retreat in England. Vance’s upcoming trip has already raised concerns from residents. They are terrified that his presence would spark a public outcry like that which he faced at Disneyland in California, where sections of the amusement park were closed to public use for his benefit and attracted public ridicule.
Protests will likely be waiting for Vance’s arrival to the Cotswolds. The Stop Trump Coalition issued a statement noting, “JD Vance is every bit as unwelcome in the UK as Donald Trump,” further emphasizing the possibility of organized resistance during his stay. The coalition assured that “even in the Cotswolds, he will find the resistance waiting.”
Locals have experienced a surge in tourism over the last decade, and many residents express mixed feelings about the influx of visitors. Ken Greenway articulated this sentiment, stating, “That’s the balancing act that we live with.” He acknowledged that while tourism brings economic benefits, it poses challenges for local communities.
Lesley Webb, a local resident, said she was glad to be moving away from the area because of the growing population and congestion. The growing popularity of the Cotswolds has drawn both admiration and frustration from residents who feel overwhelmed by the changes brought on by tourism.
Perhaps after learning about their recent ski vacation intervention and protests still surging through their country, Vance’s family will search for different lodgings. Local gossip has it that they might find themselves taking their holidays rather closer to Chipping Norton, just across the Oxfordshire border. Word on the street is that some “filthy rich Anglo” will be willing to loan them a space. This might save them the disappointment and irritations of staying in Airbnb rentals.
Laurelyn Karagianis, a local resident, reflected on the situation, saying, “I just met with a friend who I haven’t seen in 15 years, and that was the main topic of discussion over dinner. It’s sad that our politicians are kind of a laughing stock that the world has to protest.” In short, she communicated her gratitude for being gone from the region before Vance’s appearance. I’m just happy that we’ll have been there by then,” she said.
The Cotswolds have developed a reputation as the favoured region for rich Americans wanting a toehold in England. With those high-profile visits comes another wave of scrutiny and potential backlash from the very communities they intend to visit. As JD Vance gets ready to show off for his summer vacation, there’s bound to be conflict between tourists and the people who live there.
As opposition builds and demonstrations are threatened, it’s clear that Vance’s visit is going to be interesting no matter what happens. Not only would the Vice President’s presence inflame existing tensions over known, divisive political figures. This unique circumstance has a direct effect on how these figures are perceived abroad.