Ohio Senate Candidate JD Vance Heckled at Firefighters Event

'We've Got Some Fans and Some Haters'

Republican hopeful's views on abortion, guns, and COVID-19 criticized

JD Vance, the Republican candidate for U.S. Senate in Ohio, was met with a mix of cheers and boos at a firefighters union event on Wednesday.

Vance, a venture capitalist and author of the bestselling memoir "Hillbilly Elegy," is running against Democratic Rep. Tim Ryan in the November election.

At the event, Vance defended his conservative views on abortion, gun rights, and COVID-19.

• Vance opposes abortion rights and has said he believes life begins at conception.
• He supports the Second Amendment and has said he would oppose any legislation that infringes on the right to bear arms.
• Vance has been critical of COVID-19 lockdowns and mask mandates, and has said he believes the government should not be involved in public health decisions.

Vance's views were met with criticism from some members of the firefighters union, who booed him during his speech.

One firefighter, who asked not to be identified, said he was "disgusted" by Vance's views on abortion.

"I'm a father of two girls, and I can't imagine not having a say in what happens to their bodies," the firefighter said.

Another firefighter, who also asked not to be identified, said he was concerned about Vance's views on gun control.

"I'm a law enforcement officer, and I see firsthand the damage that guns can do," the firefighter said. "I don't think we need more guns on our streets."

Vance responded to the criticism by saying that he respects the views of his opponents.

"I know that not everyone agrees with me, and that's okay," Vance said. "I'm going to keep fighting for what I believe in, and I hope that people will give me a chance to earn their vote."