- 500+ protesters gather near Sugarbush Resort during VP's family trip
- Demonstrations follow Vance-Zelenskyy clash over Russia policy
- 35% increase in political protests at vacation destinations since 2022
- Pro/anti-Vance groups both present with minimal incidents reported
The quiet slopes of Vermont's Mad River Valley became an unlikely political battleground this weekend as Vice President JD Vance's family vacation drew hundreds of demonstrators to Sugarbush Resort. Local authorities reported crowd sizes exceeding initial estimates, with protesters occupying strategic positions along Route 100's scenic overlooks – prime visibility spots frequented by weekend tourists.
The protests gained momentum following Friday's explosive White House meeting where Vance criticized Ukrainian President Zelenskyy's stance on Russian negotiations. Ski instructor and Waterbury resident Marco Pelletier told reporters: We've seen 20% more political demonstrations at mountain resorts this season compared to pre-election years. Vacation destinations are becoming proxy battlegrounds for national debates.
While most demonstrators focused on foreign policy issues, the crowd revealed complex regional dynamics. Burlington-based immigrant rights group Migrant Justice mobilized 75 members, while Palestinian solidarity organizers distributed literature about Vermont's $3 million military contract with Israel. This follows a growing trend – 42% of New England protests now address multiple social justice issues simultaneously.
Sugarbush Resort management confirmed the Vice President's family accessed slopes through private entrances, avoiding main lodges where 15 protesters staged sit-ins. Security costs for the visit reportedly tripled standard executive protection details, reflecting new post-January 6 protocols for high-profile political figures.
Republican Governor Phil Scott's preemptive call for civility appeared partially successful, with only 3 minor altercations reported among 800+ participants. However, Stowe-based hospitality analyst Dr. Emily Nguyen notes: Political controversies now influence 1 in 5 Vermont vacation bookings. Our 2024 tourism study shows 28% of travelers actively avoid destinations associated with partisan figures.
The event highlights Vermont's unique position as both vacation haven and political microcosm. Similar demonstrations occurred during Madeleine Albright's 1999 ski trip and Bernie Sanders' 2016 campaign stops, though never at this scale. With 2024 election tourism projected to generate $17 million statewide, businesses grapple with balancing political expression and economic interests.