It would appear that JD Vance has already fully thought through what he would do if Donald Trump were to suddenly pass away.
There have been recent concerns about the President's health, with the 79-year-old being caught on camera with make-up covering a bruise on his hand and swollen ankles.
In a candid interview with USA Today, Vance responded to questions about whether he was ready to step into the Oval Office, emphasizing that while he hopes such a situation never arises, he is prepared “if God forbid” a “terrible tragedy” were to occur.
Vance, 41, who is the third youngest vice president in U.S. history, was quick to reassure the public that Trump, despite his age and recent health concerns, is in strong health.
“Yes, terrible tragedies happen,” Vance acknowledged. “And if, God forbid, there’s a terrible tragedy, I can’t think of better on-the-job training than what I’ve gotten over the last 200 days.”
Still, he stressed that he had “very confident” belief in the president’s health, stating that Trump, 79, is in "incredibly good health" and “has incredible energy.”
The vice president highlighted that while most of the people working around the president are younger, Trump remains remarkably active.
“He’s the last person who goes to sleep, he’s the last person making phone calls at night, and he’s the first person who wakes up and the first person making phone calls in the morning,” Vance said.
His words underscore that Trump’s age has not dampened his capacity to lead.
However, concerns about the president’s health have surfaced in recent months.
Earlier this year, Trump was diagnosed with chronic venous insufficiency (CVI), a condition that affects blood circulation in the legs.
The diagnosis came shortly after his 79th birthday in June, marking a significant milestone as he became the oldest person to be inaugurated as president.
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed rumors regarding Trump’s health, particularly after the president was seen with bruising on his hands, per the New York Post.
She explained that the bruising was attributed to "minor soft tissue irritation" from frequent handshakes and aspirin use.
The presidential physician confirmed that Trump underwent various tests, all of which ruled out serious conditions such as blood clots or heart disease, and there were no signs of deeper issues such as heart failure or renal impairment.
Despite the reassurances from the White House, Vance’s remarks sparked some discussion.
While many supported his positive take on the president’s health, others found his response to be somewhat peculiar.
One individual remarked on social media: “Strange thing to say as the person who is VP, no?”
Some even speculated that Vance’s comments were “ominous” or hinted at a potential upcoming shift in leadership.
It should be noted that Vance’s comments about stepping in if needed are standard protocol for any vice president, given that succession to the presidency is a critical and often sensitive topic.