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5h ago

Agencies Say River Release for Vance Kayak Trip Met Routine Criteria

Officials say the Corps’ August water release met all operational criteria for security, drawing criticism from ethics experts over use of public infrastructure during funding cuts.

The Little Miami River flows in Oregonia, Ohio, Thursday, Aug. 7, 2025. (AP Photo/Patrick Aftoora-Orsagos)
Vice President JD Vance speaks as President Donald Trump makes an announcement about Apple with Apple CEO Tim Cook in the Oval Office, Wednesday, Aug. 6, 2025, in Washington.
U.S. Vice President JD Vance delivers remarks at the Wilshire Federal Building in Los Angeles, California, U.S., June 20, 2025.
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Overview

  • The Secret Service requested on August 1 that the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers raise outflows from Caesar Creek Lake to support safe navigation of Vice President Vance’s security detail during his family kayaking trip.
  • U.S. Geological Survey data confirmed a simultaneous spike in the Little Miami River’s level and a drop in the lake’s elevation coinciding with Vance’s 41st birthday outing.
  • USACE spokesperson Gene Pawlik stated the release complied with the Water Control Manual for Caesar Creek Lake and required no deviation from normal procedures.
  • Vance’s office said he was unaware of the adjustment and that the measure was driven solely by Secret Service operational planning.
  • Ethics lawyers and critics called the action an appearance of entitlement and questioned the use of public resources during deep budget cuts to agencies like the National Park Service.