Vance’s Extravagant Motorcade Disrupts Winter Olympics

Vice President JD Vance’s extensive motorcade caused significant disruption during the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics. The motorcade nearly prevented American figure skater Alysa Liu from reaching her scheduled performance, almost derailing her gold-medal hopes.

Motorcade Disruption at the Winter Olympics

On Friday, Liu faced a tight schedule as she approached the Milano skating area. Her coach, Phillip DiGuglielmo, remarked, “We almost didn’t make it.” Fortunately, Liu arrived just in time to perform, finishing second in the women’s short program. She trailed Japan’s Kaori Sakamoto, but her performance helped Team USA secure a narrow two-point lead over Japan.

The Scale of Vance’s Motorcade

Vance, 41, arrived with a large U.S. delegation, flying in multiple planes that transported staff, security, and vehicles. The motorcade consisted of several Chevy Suburbans navigating the narrow streets of Milan. Footage from an Italian news outlet depicted one of Vance’s vehicles nearly colliding with another vehicle.

Controversy Surrounding Vance

JD Vance faced backlash during the Olympics Opening Ceremony when he and his wife, Usha, were booed by attendees. This response occurred despite the International Olympic Committee’s calls for a supportive atmosphere. Vance’s visit comes at a time when American sentiment is declining in Italy, largely due to his previous statements and actions.

• In February, Vance criticized Italy and other European nations for “abandoning Democratic values.”
• Security concerns arose when the Department of Homeland Security confirmed that ICE agents would be present at the Olympics.
• This decision ignited protests from Italians familiar with past violent incidents involving ICE.

Local Reactions

Milan’s mayor, Giuseppe Sala, publicly opposed the presence of ICE, stating, “This is a militia that kills… They’re not welcome in Milan.” He emphasized the need for Italy to stand against Trump’s policies.

Previous Incidents and Safety Concerns

This disruption is not a new occurrence for Vance’s motorcade. In October, a part of California highway was shut down for a military display, which resulted in dangerous incidents involving shrapnel.

Despite his ongoing controversies, Vance has attended various Olympic events, including the ice skating competition and a women’s hockey match. His visit continues to draw scrutiny both at home and abroad.