US Vice President JD Vance has drawn attention after completing a grueling 90-minute intensive physical training session with United States Navy SEALs at their Naval Amphibious Base in Coronado, California, sparking debate about the symbolism of senior political leaders publicly embracing military fitness — and the political message behind it.
On the microblogging platform X, Marine Corps veteran JD Vance shared pictures and reflections from a Dec. 22 training session, showing him carrying heavy logs and climbing nets alongside elite special forces members.
What exactly did JD Vance do with the US Navy SEALs?
US Navy SEALs JD Vance’s training included classic SEAL conditioning — sand running, rope and net climbing, and log exercises — all compressed into a single 90-minute, intense workout on Coronado’s beaches.
US Navy SEALs JD Vance’s training included classic SEAL conditioning — sand running, rope and net climbing, and log exercises — all compressed into a single 90-minute, intense workout on Coronado’s beaches.
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, the US vice president wrote: “Just finished PT with Navy SEALs for 90 minutes (when I get some pics of them). They put me at ease and I still feel like I got hit by a freight train.”
Read also | Why is the US cracking down on H-1B visa workers? JD Vance cites “true Christian politics”
He added: “So grateful to all our warriors who keep us safe and uphold the highest standards anywhere in the world!”
In a separate post earlier in the day, JD Vance also said:
“I’ve just finished training” and “Even though the special forces guys held me lightly, my whole body hurts like I’ve been hit by a freight train.”
Why Coronado – and why the US Navy SEALs?
Coronado is no ordinary military base. It is home to the SEALs’ Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) program, widely regarded as one of the most punishing military training courses in the world. His infamous “Hell Week” leaves candidates physically and mentally exhausted, with only about 20% completing the course typically.
Founded in 1962, the SEALs are among the most recognized US special operations forces, with a prominent place in popular culture and modern military history. They played a key role in the war in Iraq, operations against the Islamic State and the mission that killed Osama bin Laden.
Read also | Who is the adm. Bradley? Navy official denies ‘kill them all’ order in strike probe
Analysts estimate that it costs about $2 million to train one SEAL, reflecting the scope and intensity of the 62-week program.
JD Vance’s military background
U.S. Vice President and husband of Usha Vance JD Vance enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps after high school and served from 2003 to 2007, deploying to Iraq in 2005. He has often described his time in uniform as formative, particularly in shaping his views on “America First” foreign policy.
Is this part of a broader trend in the Trump administration?
U.S. Vice President and husband of Usha Vance, JD Vance enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps after high school and served from 2003 to 2007
Since the return of Donald Trump’s administration, senior officials have increasingly been seen in direct contact with troops, a practice allies have framed as “respecting the troops.”
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has repeatedly trained with service members. In February, Pete Hegseth joined the 10th Special Forces Group for weightlifting and running at their barracks during a trip to Germany.
Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., now 71, also gained attention for public displays of physical prowess. In August last year, he reportedly completed a “health challenge” of 50 pull-ups and 100 pull-ups at the Pentagon gym in jeans.
Read also | Vance on ringless photos and media speculation Usha: ‘We’re having fun’
These displays are in line with the administration’s broader “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) push, which links physical fitness to national strength and preparedness.
What did Vance say about military standards – and his beard?
I didn’t have a beard when I was a young United States Marine. I am now the vice president. So I Gotta Do What I Want: JD Vance (This is a picture of a young JD Vance when he was in the Marine Corps)
JD Vance has openly praised Pete Hegseth for trying to enforce “very high standards” within the armed forces. Notably, he was the only participant pictured with a beard during Coronado’s practice.
Addressing the issue earlier this year, Vance noted:
“When I was a young United States Marine, I didn’t have a beard. Now I’m the vice president. So I can do whatever I want.”
