Yes, JD Vance’s Beard Matters. Here’s Why.

Politico ^ | 07/25/2024 | Emily Schultheis

[MinorityRepublican]

Beards are seemingly ubiquitous in pop culture and public life. From sports stars to country singers to Hollywood actors, facial hair has made a noticeable comeback in recent years — except in politics.

It’s been more than a century since a sitting president or vice president sported a beard, and nearly 80 years since a candidate for the White House had any facial hair whatsoever. Even in Congress, those with beards remain few and far between.

Enter Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance. The Ohio politician’s full beard is so novel on a presidential ticket that it’s been the subject of a disproportionate amount of the chatter surrounding his selection.

Pundits had speculated as to whether it would ultimately be a deal-breaker for Donald Trump, whose well-known aversion to facial hair reportedly doomed some potential picks for his first-term Cabinet. Trump’s preferences mirror the long-standing societal stereotypes, which is part of why most pols have avoided facial hair in recent decades:

For most of the 20th century in the United States, beards were seen as unprofessional and unhygienic. More recent research has shown that voters perceive facial hair as deeply masculine, which can come with both positive connotations (like competence) and negative ones (like aggression and less support of feminist issues).

[blitz128]

I think he won some concerts based on content and demeanor but esp dreamy eyes and masculine beard 😂

[dforest]

Lets face it, ole rubbermouth, bug eyed prancin’ Timmy just can’t win in either category. 🤣🤣

[Betty Jane]

Thanks for sharing that. It was interesting. I’m going to tuck that in the back of my mind for if I ever hear of a man having a similar issue.

[SamAdams76]

I grew a beard a couple years ago and will never go back. The comments have been relentlessly positive. I also like the fact that I never have to shave anymore (except use a trimmer now and then so I don't go totally Rip Van Winkle or ZZ Top!).

Grew out the hair as well as longer hair goes well with beards.

[rlmorel]

LOL, share the antiseptic soap advice, not the facial depilatory advice!