Former Vice President Mike Pence’s recent campaign ad has caught the attention of viewers for all the wrong reasons. In the ad, Pence attempts to connect with voters by discussing rising gas prices under the Biden administration while pretending to fill his pickup truck with gas. However, astute viewers quickly noticed that Pence never actually squeezes the handle of the fuel pump, and the pump continuously beeps throughout the video.
The lackluster delivery of the ad has led many to question the competency of Pence’s campaign team. It seems baffling that the director of the ad didn’t ensure that Pence actually pumped gas during the shoot. This oversight could have been easily prevented with some simple preparation and instructions to pump the gas before filming started. Perhaps multiple takes were done, but it’s clear that the ad fell short in portraying Pence as a relatable figure.
This is not the first time politicians have made awkward attempts to seem relatable to the everyday American. For example, Senator Elizabeth Warren’s attempt to appear down-to-earth by cracking open a beer during an Instagram live chat session drew criticism and mockery. Similarly, former Senator Claire McCaskill pretended to be traveling across Missouri in an RV to meet with constituents, but reports suggest she actually used a private plane.
Even two-time failed presidential candidate Hillary Clinton struggled to seem relatable when she fumbled with a MetroCard while attempting to use the subway. And who can forget President George H.W. Bush’s infamous supermarket incident, where he appeared baffled by modern equipment?
However, Pence’s issues extend beyond his inability to pump gas. Last month, he engaged in a contentious exchange with Tucker Carlson over his focus on Ukraine rather than addressing issues facing America. More recently, Pence faced backlash from conservatives for his supportive statement regarding the indictment of Donald Trump in relation to the January 6th Capitol riot.
These incidents have led some, like former national security adviser Keith Kellogg, to declare Pence as “unworthy of the presidency” and instead endorse Trump for the 2024 election.
In the end, Pence’s campaign ad blunder highlights the importance of authenticity and preparedness in political advertising. To connect with voters, politicians must present themselves in a relatable and genuine manner. The lack of attention to detail in Pence’s ad only further undermines his image as a man of the people. Perhaps Pence should consider returning to Indiana and focus on more practical matters, such as pumping gas at a local station.
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