Complicating matters, a 2023 post by Vance on X — which listed messages such as support for Black Lives Matter and "No Human is Illegal" — resurfaced, prompting accusations of inconsistency. The resurfaced post underscored the swift reaction and fueled debate over his stance.
Vance, a Catholic convert, has also sparred with Vatican commentary on U.S. immigration; he said he disagrees with some Vatican statements and warned the pope to be cautious when weighing in. The exchange added a religious dimension to the online controversy.