Halloween 2025 delivered one of the year’s most self-aware political moments when Vice President JD Vance transformed a viral internet jab into his own costume, proving that even in the high-stakes world of Washington, a good laugh at yourself can go a long way.
On October 31, Vance shared a photo and video on X (formerly Twitter) where he donned a curly, voluminous wig, wide-eyed expression, and a puffed-up vibe that perfectly recreated the infamous “Fat JD” meme—a bloated, rosy-cheeked caricature of himself that’s been haunting social media since early 2025.
The meme’s origin traces back to a tense February White House meeting between President Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
During the exchange, Vance interjected with a pointed question: “Have you ever said ‘thank you’ once?” to Zelenskyy, amid discussions on U.S. aid to Ukraine. The moment went viral, but it was AI-generated edits that amplified it—turning Vance into a chubby, long-haired figure often spinning in eerie Twilight Zone-style filters or delivering awkward one-liners.
What started as mockery from critics and meme lords quickly became a cultural touchstone, with Vance himself acknowledging the humor in interviews earlier this year.
In a year defined by election echoes and global tensions, Vance’s curly-wigged whirl served as a reminder: Halloween isn’t just for kids in capes—it’s for vice presidents reclaiming their digital doppelgangers.
Whether it humanizes him or just fuels more fodder, one thing’s clear: “Fat JD” isn’t fading anytime soon. Happy belated All Hallows’ Eve— and yeah, say thank you.