2 min readOct 21, 2026 08:44 AM ISTVance linked the requirement to road safety, arguing that drivers operating large commercial vehicles should be able to understand highway signs. (File Photo)The United States Vice President JD Vance stumbled over the phrase “English proficiency” while addressing a midterm campaign rally in Hendersonville, North Carolina, on Monday, drawing attention on social media as he discussed language requirements for commercial truck drivers.“It’s common sense. Think about this: that if you’re behind a gigantic semi-truck, you ought to be able to read highway signs. Which is why we made English proficiency mandatory to obtain a commercial driver’s license in this state and all across our country,” Vance said.View this post on InstagramA video of the remarks showed Vance struggling with the pronunciation of “proficiency” while making the case for English-language requirements for commercial drivers. The moment came during a speech in which he defended the Trump administration’s policies on immigration and the economy.Vance linked the requirement to road safety, arguing that drivers operating large commercial vehicles should be able to understand highway signs. His remarks also formed part of the administration’s broader emphasis on immigration enforcement and border security.Also Read | JD Vance says ‘I love my Indian in-laws, but…’ amid India-US H-1B visa rowThe rally comes less than two weeks before the November 3 US midterm elections, in which voters will elect all 435 members of the House of Representatives, 35 senators and governors in 36 states. The polls will determine which party controls Congress for the remainder of President Donald Trump’s term. Republicans currently hold narrow majorities in both chambers.The Trump administration is faced with President Donald Trump’s record-low popularity, voter frustration over the cost of living and immigration emerging as key issues shaping the midterm elections campaign, according to a report by Reuters. The elections will determine whether Republicans retain their narrow majorities in the House and Senate or Democrats gain control of either chamber, allowing them to challenge the Trump administration’s agenda.Several Indian-American candidates are also contesting races across the country. Among them are Republican Vivek Ramaswamy, who is running for governor of Ohio, and Democrat Amish Shah, contesting Arizona’s first congressional district.© IE Online Media Services Pvt LtdThe Express Global Desk at indianexpress.com which delivers authoritative, verified, and context-driven coverage of key international developments shaping global politics, policy, and migration trends. The desk focuses on stories with direct relevance for Indian and global audiences, combining breaking news with in-depth explainers and analysis. A major focus area of the desk is US immigration and visa policy, including developments related to student visas, work permits, permanent residency pathways, executive actions, and court rulings. The Global Desk also closely tracks Canada’s immigration, visa, and study policies, covering changes to study permits, post-study work options, permanent residence programmes, and regulatory updates affecting migrants and international students. All reporting from the Global Desk adheres to The Indian Express’ editorial standards, relying on official data, government notifications, court documents, and on-record sources. The desk prioritises clarity, accuracy, and accountability, ensuring readers can navigate complex global systems with confidence. Core Team The Express Global Desk is led by a team of experienced journalists and editors with deep expertise in international affairs and migration policy: Aniruddha Dhar – Senior Assistant Editor with extensive experience in global affairs, international politics, and editorial leadership. Nischai Vats – Deputy Copy Editor specialising in US politics, US visa and immigration policy, and policy-driven international coverage. Mashkoora Khan – Sub-editor focusing on global developments, with a strong emphasis on Canada visa, immigration, and study-related policy coverage. ... Read MoreStay updated with the latest - Click here to follow us on InstagramTags:USAdvertisementLoading Recommendations...AdvertisementAdvertisement