Trump backs Vance in 'childless cat ladies' controversy, says he said that because 'family is good'

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump on Monday defended his running mate, Senator JD Vance, amid controversy over Vance's past comments about "childless cat ladies."

The remarks, made in 2021, have resurfaced after Trump selected the Ohio senator as his running mate earlier this month.

What did Vance say?

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Back in 2021, Trump's running mate JD Vance had criticised Vice President Kamala Harris and other Democrats, labelling them as a "bunch of childless cat ladies who are miserable at their own lives".

The damning statement has become a political headache for the Republican White House contenders' White House campaign.

Trump defends Vance

In an interview on Fox News, Trump sought to downplay the controversy.

The republican ex-president who has his fair share of controversies said he does not place a higher value on people with families.

"You know, you don't meet the right person, or you don't meet any person. But you're just as good, in many cases, a lot better than a person that's in a family situation," Trump said.

Defending Vance, he explained that Vance had an "interesting family situation" and that his comments were an expression of his personal experiences and values.

"He grew up in a very interesting family situation, and he feels family is good. And I don't think there's anything wrong in saying that," Trump said.

Vance, who had a challenging upbringing in Ohio and was largely raised by his grandmother, has often spoken about the importance of family in his life.

Experts warn Vance's comments can spoil Trump's re-election bid

The backlash has raised concerns among political strategists that such statements could alienate crucial voters in a tightly contested election. They warn that the comment could cost the Trump campaign valuable votes in a close election that could be decided in a handful of states by a few thousand voters.

This is especially true with Harris slated to be officially recognised as the Democratic nominee following President Joe Biden's decision not to run.

Harris, who has two stepchildren with her husband, lawyer Doug Emhoff, has faced similar attacks in the past. Emhoff's ex-wife has defended Harris, calling the attacks "baseless" and describing her as a "loving, nurturing, fiercely protective" co-parent.

(With inputs from agencies)