In his first speech after Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential win, Tim Walz, Minnesota’s Governor and recent Democratic vice-presidential candidate, took a playful jab at Republican J.D. Vance. Back in Minnesota on Friday, November 8, Walz couldn’t help but bring up a viral moment from the campaign trail. In August, Vance had an odd encounter at a donut shop that left people laughing and sparked talk about how different the two candidates really are.
A video of J.D. Vance awkwardly trying to order donuts went viral on social media. While visiting Holt’s Sweet Shop in Valdosta, Georgia, Vance introduced himself to an employee by saying, “I’m J.D. Vance, and I’m running for vice president.” The employee responded with a simple “OK,” leaving Vance stumbling over his order. He asked for “a lot” of glazed donuts, “some sprinkle stuff,” cinnamon rolls, and “whatever makes sense.”
The exchange came off as stiff and uncomfortable, making Vance seem out of place in the relaxed donut shop. The incident sparked plenty of jokes, with some even comparing him to a character from the comedy show Veep.
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On the campaign trail, Walz had a much different experience. While visiting Cherry Hill Orchards in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, he chatted with the shop’s manager and picked up some whoopie pies and apple cider donuts. With a grin, he joked, “Look at me, I have no problem picking out donuts,” poking fun at Vance’s earlier awkward moment. Walz’s visit felt warm and relaxed, showing an easy connection with everyone around him.
“Look at me I have no problem picking out donuts.”
— Tim Walz getting pumpkin and chocolate whoopie pies and apple cider donuts at Cherry Hill Orchards in Lancaster Pennsylvania pic.twitter.com/doSyzBNxT9
— Howard Mortman (@HowardMortman) September 4, 2024
Now, after Trump’s win, Walz gave one last speech back home and dropped a line his supporters loved: “I can order donuts, people.” The crowd laughed, but it wasn’t just for laughs. Walz was making a bigger point that Democrats like him keep highlighting—staying close to everyday folks matters.
Tim Walz: “I’ve made many new friends, I’ve learned a lot of new things, I ate WAY too much local food… but I can order donuts, people! I can order donuts.” pic.twitter.com/V53FsjjwnL
— Cooper💫 (@cooperownbey) November 8, 2024
To him, even something simple, like picking out snacks, shows he understands real people’s lives. Meanwhile, Vance’s awkward moment stood out, making him seem distant and out of touch. Some voters might wonder if this kind of moment really matters, but small actions can say a lot about a candidate. When politicians seem distant or out of place in simple situations, it raises questions about how well they understand the daily struggles of Americans. Democrats have argued that the current GOP often supports policies that benefit the wealthy while ignoring the needs of ordinary families.
Walz’s lighthearted dig at Vance’s donut incident wasn’t just a parting shot; it was also a reminder of the Democrats’ message this election season. Walz and his party aimed to show that they could relate to people’s lives and that they cared about the same things regular folks do.
Featured image via Political Tribune Gallery
