JD Vance Slams Obama's 'Super Elitist' Cheesecake Factory Remark
The Vice President criticized the former president's jab at the White House decor, arguing it reveals a disconnect from everyday Americans.
Vice President JD Vance on Thursday criticized former President Barack Obama's recent remark that the White House under the current administration resembles "Saddam Hussein opened a Cheesecake Factory." Vance, speaking at a Fox News town hall in Texas, described Obama's comment as an example of "super elitist" rhetoric.
"I think it’s like a good example of how Obama, without even trying to be, just can’t help himself from being super elitist," Vance stated. He recalled Obama's past comments about people who "wanted good jobs were ‘clinging to their guns and their religion,’" suggesting Obama often dismisses the concerns of average Americans.
Obama made the remark over the weekend while campaigning in Ohio, criticizing President Trump's focus on White House renovations. "He’s got the White House looking like Saddam Hussein opened a Cheesecake Factory," Obama said.
During a later rally in Atlanta, Obama appeared to soften his criticism, stating that as "the father of two daughters," the Cheesecake Factory was "my jam for about a decade." Vance suggested this shift indicated Obama recognized the popular appeal of the restaurant.
"See, that’s exactly the point, though… he realized, ‘Oh, a lot of the people we want to vote for us actually like the Cheesecake Factory,’" Vance explained. He added that the restaurant, known for its extensive menu, is an "odd" choice for criticism.
"The menu is like 75 pages long, so there’s something for everybody," Vance quipped. "Leave us alone, Barack!" The exchange was met with a joke from host Jesse Watters that the next town hall might be held at a Cheesecake Factory.