The Cheesesteak Controversy

In the city where cheesesteak traditions run as deep as the history of its Liberty Bell, any deviation from the norm is bound to raise eyebrows. Recent headlines have set off a flurry of reactions online after JD Vance, Republican vice presidential nominee, made a seemingly innocuous inquiry about Swiss cheese at the iconic Pat’s King of Steaks. But was this a serious breach of local etiquette or just a case of overblown media drama?

The Philadelphia Inquirer’s initial headline, “JD Vance gets a cheesesteak at Pat’s: ‘He asked about why we don’t have Swiss cheese,’” sparked a wave of online reactions. While the headline has since been shortened, the concept of Vance questioning the absence of Swiss cheese at Pat’s was enough to get social media buzzing.

According to Pat’s manager, Sammy Garcia, Vance’s question was met with amusement rather than indignation. “He asked why we don’t have Swiss cheese,” Garcia said with a chuckle. “We thought that was funny.” Vance, who admitted to hating Swiss cheese himself, was curious about why it wasn’t offered, given that he was aware it was generally a no-no in the cheesesteak world.

The Legacy of Cheese Controversies

This isn’t the first time a political figure has made waves with an unconventional cheesesteak order. In 2004, former Senator John Kerry’s choice to add Swiss cheese to his cheesesteak led to a significant uproar. Kerry’s order was widely mocked and became a minor political scandal, demonstrating just how seriously Philadelphians take their cheesesteak traditions.

Social Media Frenzy

The reaction on social media was swift and varied. Critics quickly took to platforms like X to voice their disdain or amusement. Anthony Michael Kreis, a law professor from Georgia, humorously referred to Swiss cheese preferences as “an alternative lifestyle” in Philadelphia. Meanwhile, former Defense Department employee Joseph Gruber expressed frustration, suggesting that Vance should have been better briefed on local customs.

Some local commentators took a more humorous approach. Mike McGann, editor-in-chief, quipped that “real Philly peeps don’t go to Pat’s” and don’t inquire about Swiss cheese. Others, like CPAC director Andrew Langer, stepped in to defend Vance, claiming that the Ohio Senator never actually ordered a cheesesteak with Swiss cheese, and dismissing the uproar as a creation of “liberal” exaggeration.

Fact vs. Fiction

As the debate continues, it’s worth noting that The cheese conundrum may be more of a media misstep than a genuine political blunder. While the idea of Vance ordering Swiss cheese is met with some derision, it appears the incident was more about curiosity than a serious attempt to upset local traditions.

Is This a Real Gaffe?

JD Vance’s cheesesteak adventure has certainly stirred the pot in Philadelphia, but whether it’s a true gaffe or a media-fueled tempest in a teapot remains up for debate. What’s clear is that Philadelphia’s cheesesteak culture is as fervently protected as its historic landmarks, and any deviation from the norm is bound to attract attention. For now, the Swiss cheese debate has added another layer of intrigue to the city’s rich culinary landscape.