Vice President J.D. Vance welcomed Taoiseach Micheál Martin of Ireland to a St. Patrick’s Day breakfast at the Vice President’s residence at the U.S. Naval Observatory on Wednesday, showcasing his “sock diplomacy.”
“Before I introduce the Taoiseach, I just want to say that one of the things we try to do with this breakfast is remind people of the strong bonds of friendship between the United States and Ireland,” Vance said.
“I think it’s a great opportunity for that, and it’s also a chance for Usha to wear her green pants,” Vance joked, causing the crowd to laugh as he glanced at Second Lady Usha Vance’s outfit. “She’s had them in the closet for years!”
Vance then shared that during his time as a senator, he learned about the concept of “sock diplomacy” and the significance of gifting socks to his fellow senators.
WATCH: @VP delivers remarks at a St. Patrick’s Day breakfast with Ireland Taoiseach Micheal Martin:
“One of the things that we try to do with this breakfast is remind people of the important bonds of friendship between the United States and Ireland.” 🇺🇸🇮🇪 pic.twitter.com/EhW9fKNcQs
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) March 12, 2025
“I give Massachusetts socks to my friends from Massachusetts and socks from Utah to my friends in Utah,” he explained.
Leaning down from the podium, the vice president proudly displayed his shamrock socks to the crowd, prompting applause.
He added, with a grin, that President Donald Trump was a “big fan of conservative dress,” jokingly asking the audience to defend him if the president noticed the socks.
“This is an important part of cementing the Irish-American relationship, and that’s the only reason I’m wearing these socks,” Vance said.
Later, during a meeting in the Oval Office with the Taoiseach, President Trump humorously commented on Vance’s socks.
“I love these socks. What’s with these socks?” Trump quipped, pointing at Vance’s feet.
“I’m trying to stay focused, but VP’s socks…” Trump added as those in the room laughed.
The meeting with Ireland’s Taoiseach will include key trade discussions in the lead-up to the annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration on March 17.
On Wednesday, the European Union announced plans to impose $28 billion in counter-tariffs on U.S. goods in April.
While seated with Ireland’s premier in the Oval Office, Trump told reporters that the European Union “treats us very badly” and stated, “whatever they charge us with, we’re charging them.”
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“Look, the EU was set up to take advantage of the United States,” he added.
When asked by a reporter if Ireland was taking advantage, Trump responded, “Of course they are. Of course they are.”
This article was originally published at www.washingtonexaminer.com
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