US President Donald Trump lightheartedly teased Vice President JD Vance over his choice of socks during an Oval Office meeting with Ireland’s Prime Minister, Micheál Martin.
In a widely shared video, Trump, Vance and Martin were seen addressing the press when the president suddenly turned his attention to Vance’s cream-colored socks adorned with green shamrocks.
“I have to just, speak of inflation, I love these socks,” Trump remarked, momentarily sidetracking from a discussion on inflation. He then jokingly asked, “What’s with these socks?”
Struggling to stay serious, Trump added, “I’m trying to stay focused, but I’m very impressed with the VP’s socks,” prompting laughter from Vance.
I knew he'd comment on these socks 🤣 https://t.co/VNYxgF49Ti
— JD Vance (@JDVance) March 12, 2025
The 78-year-old President was discussing inflation when he noticed JD Vance’s shamrock-themed socks, worn in honor of the Irish Prime Minister’s visit. The shamrock, a type of clover, is a well-known symbol of Ireland and was traditionally associated with St. Patrick, the country’s patron saint.
Ahead of the meeting, Vance had acknowledged the importance of the annual gathering, saying, “One of the things that we try to do with this breakfast is remind people of the important bonds of friendship between the United States and Ireland.”
Anticipating Trump’s reaction to his unconventional footwear, Vance quipped, “The president is a very big fan of conservative dress. So, if he notices these socks, you [Martin] have to defend me and you’ve got to say this is an important part of cementing the Irish-American relationship.”