Vice President JD Vance's security detail requested to raise the water level of the Little Miami River for a kayaking trip during his 41st birthday celebration. Critics viewed this request as an expression of entitlement, contrasting it with budget cuts affecting public services. Richard W. Painter criticized the Army Corps of Engineers for using taxpayer money for this purpose while the National Park Service faces funding challenges. The Corps stated the operation was standard and did not impact downstream levels, while Vance's spokesman indicated the vice president was unaware of the water level increase.
The U.S. Secret Service requested increased waterflow for the Little Miami River to ensure motorized watercraft and emergency personnel could operate safely while protecting Vice President JD Vance.
Critics blasted this action as a sign of entitlement, highlighting the disparity between government spending on the Vice President's enjoyment and cuts affecting public services like the National Park Service.
Richard W. Painter called it "outrageous for the Army corps of engineers to spend taxpayer money to increase water flow in a river so @VP can go canoeing" given recent budget cuts.
The Corps of Engineers stated the increase met operational criteria and did not adversely affect water levels, notifying downstream stakeholders before the event.
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