JD Vance makes illegal border crossings remark after heckler demands Epstein files at rally

HENDERSONVILLE, NORTH CAROLINA: Vice President JD Vance faced criticism after responding to a heckler who demanded the release of the Epstein files during a midterm rally on Monday, October 19. The interruption came as Vance addressed supporters in Hendersonville, where the crowd chanted “USA!” as the heckler was escorted out of Hyder Warehouse.

Vance then made a remark about illegal border crossings, prompting California Gov Gavin Newsom to criticize his response.

JD Vance responds to Epstein files heckler with illegal border crossings remark

The heckler was seated behind Vance when he interrupted the vice president's speech by shouting, “release the Epstein files.”

As the individual was removed from the venue, the crowd began chanting “USA!” Vance then addressed the audience, appearing to connect the incident to a previous statement he had made about illegal immigration.

“Ladies and gentlemen, I have to amend something I said earlier,” Vance told the crowd.

“I said that we have had zero illegal border crossings in the United States of America,” he added.

The remark drew criticism because of its apparent reference to illegal immigration following the heckler's demand for the Epstein files. The supplied account does not establish the heckler's immigration status.

Gavin Newsom calls JD Vance's response to heckler insulting

California Gov Gavin Newsom was among those who criticized Vance's remarks. Newsom, who is also viewed as a potential Democratic contender for the 2028 presidential election, responded through his press office on X.

“It's insulting to suggest only 'illegal immigrants' care about justice for victims and accountability for perpetrators,” the governor's press office said.

“Most American citizens do too!” the statement added.

Newsom's office followed up with a direct demand of its own, posting, “RELEASE THE EPSTEIN FILES.”

The response shifted attention beyond the rally itself, turning the interruption into a political dispute over the vice president's handling of the heckler and the public demand for the files.

Brian Krassenstein criticizes JD Vance over heckler incident

Newsom was not the only critic to react to the exchange.

Liberal influencer Brian Krassenstein also accused Vance of implying that the heckler was an undocumented immigrant because of his skin color.

“This is so racist and sickening,” Krassenstein said.

“A man stands up at JD Vance's rally and says, 'release the Epstein files.' Vance then implies that he's an illegal immigrant, because of his skin color,” he added.