Vice President JD Vance’s birthday kayaking trip on Ohio’s Little Miami River last week has stirred controversy after it was revealed that the U.S. Secret Service requested a temporary increase in the river’s water levels to accommodate the event. Critics argue that this move reflects an abuse of taxpayer money, especially in light of government budget cuts.

The adjustment to the water level was made by the Army Corps of Engineers, which raised the outflow from Caesar Creek Lake on August 1, just before Vance’s 41st birthday on August 2. While the Army Corps stated that the action met established criteria and did not harm water levels, critics have raised concerns about the optics of using federal resources for a recreational event. Richard W. Painter, former chief White House ethics lawyer under President George W. Bush, called it “outrageous,” pointing out the contrast between the government’s financial struggles and such actions benefiting high-ranking officials.

Vance’s office clarified that the vice president was unaware of the water level adjustment. His spokesperson explained that the Secret Service often takes such measures without the direct involvement or knowledge of the person being protected.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources confirmed that its officers assisted the Secret Service during the trip. Caesar Creek Lake, a large 2,830-acre reservoir, offers several recreational amenities, including boating ramps and a marina.

This incident follows a pattern of exclusive access granted to the Vance family, with previous reports of private tours to locations like the Roman Colosseum and the Taj Mahal during international trips. Critics have compared this incident to a similar event in 1999 when Democratic Vice President Al Gore’s campaign faced backlash after utility officials released water from the Connecticut River for a photo op.

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