Story perspectives

VP Vance Embraces 'Conspiracy Theorist' Label Amid Controversy

12/17/2025

Summary

Story summary

Vice President J. D. Vance addressed White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles's labeling of him as a "conspiracy theorist" in Vanity Fair.
During a Pennsylvania speech, Vance stated, "Sometimes I am a conspiracy theorist, but I only believe in the conspiracy theories that are true."
Susie Wiles described the Vanity Fair piece as a disingenuously framed hit piece and said it omitted significant context about U.S. President Donald Trump's achievements.

History

Historical Context

The 2023 Vanity Fair article labeling Vice President J. D. Vance a "conspiracy theorist" reflects ongoing tensions between media and political figures. This dynamic echoes the 1998 Bill Clinton scandal, where media narratives shaped public perception. As political leaders increasingly confront media portrayals, the incident underscores the enduring struggle over narrative control, impacting public trust in both politics and journalism.

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Story summary

Vice President J. D. Vance addressed White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles's labeling of him as a "conspiracy theorist" in Vanity Fair.
During a Pennsylvania speech, Vance stated, "Sometimes I am a conspiracy theorist, but I only believe in the conspiracy theories that are true."
Susie Wiles described the Vanity Fair piece as a disingenuously framed hit piece and said it omitted significant context about U.S. President Donald Trump's achievements.

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