Vance Team Allegedly Raised Ohio Water Levels for Perfect Kayaking Conditions

Vice President JD Vance’s Team Requested Water Level Adjustments for Kayaking

Vice President JD Vance’s team reportedly sought to adjust water levels in an Ohio lake to ensure ideal conditions for kayaking during a family birthday outing. The request came to light in a recent report, sparking discussions about the use of government resources for personal vacations.

During a family vacation in south-western Ohio last week, Vance was spotted canoeing down the Little Miami River on his birthday, August 2. According to reports, his team asked Army Corps engineers to modify the outflow of Caesar Creek Lake, which feeds into the river, to support "safe navigation" for his security detail.

The Guardian reported that an anonymous source claimed the request was made not only for safety and security reasons but also to create optimal water conditions so Vance could enjoy a paddle down the river. However, the outlet noted it could not independently verify the claim.

The vice president’s office did not immediately respond to requests for comment from The Independent. A Secret Service spokesperson, however, confirmed coordination with the Ohio Department of Natural Resources and the Army Corps of Engineers to ensure safe water levels during a recent visit.

Public data from the U.S. Geological Survey showed a sudden increase in river levels and a corresponding drop in Caesar Creek Lake’s water surface elevation around the time Vance was in the area. Gene Pawlik, a spokesperson for the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, told The Guardian that a request was received to "temporarily increase outflows from Caesar Creek Lake to support safe navigation of U.S. Secret Service personnel."

According to The Guardian's source, such requests for "special releases" are typically not granted for individuals. However, Pawlik stated that the Secret Service request met the operational criteria outlined in the Water Control Manual for Caesar Creek Lake and did not require deviation from normal procedures.

He added that the operations would not adversely affect downstream or upstream water levels. Downstream stakeholders were notified in advance of the slight outflow increase, which occurred on August 1, 2025.

While there is no indication that the vice president’s team acted illegally, critics have raised concerns about the perceived hypocrisy of Vance receiving special treatment for his family vacation while his administration has overseen significant job cuts in the National Park Service.

Richard Painter, an ethics lawyer who served in George W. Bush’s administration, expressed outrage over the situation. He criticized the use of taxpayer money to increase water flow for a presidential vacation when budget cuts have severely impacted recreational opportunities for others.

Norman Eisen, former ethics czar under President Barack Obama, also voiced his disapproval. He emphasized that even if the action technically complies with rules, it creates the appearance of favoritism. Eisen stated he would never have allowed such a use of government resources.

Protesters have frequently disrupted Vance’s family vacations since he took office. After news of his planned day at Disneyland in California, hundreds gathered to protest against the Trump administration’s immigration policies. In March, protesters lined the streets near a ski resort where Vance was staying with his family in Vermont.

Looking ahead, Vance is set to travel to the Cotswolds in the U.K. for his next family vacation, where he is expected to rent a rural cottage. The Independent remains committed to providing global news, commentary, and analysis for independent-minded readers, striving to make a positive impact through its trusted voice.