Vice President JD Vance lead a delegation of Ohio leaders to East Palestine on February 3, 2025 to mark two years since the toxic train derailment. Vance was joined on his visit to East Palestine by his wife, second lady of the United States Usha Vance Esq., Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, Ohio U.S. Senators Bernie Moreno and Jon Husted and new U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Director Lee Zeldin.
During the visit, officials toured key redevelopment sites, including the East Palestine Historic Train Depot and received updates on environmental monitoring, infrastructure improvements and economic revitalization efforts. They also met with residents, first responders and town leaders to hear firsthand about the progress made and the challenges that remain. Mayor Conaway and Fire Chief Drabick expressed their appreciation for the ongoing attention and resources directed toward the village.
Vice President Vance pledged his and President Donald Trump’s support to residents who were impacted saying, “President Trump wanted to deliver a message that this community will not be forgotten, will not be left behind and we’re in it for the long haul in East Palestine.”
To encourage residents, Vance said, “Don’t give up on this community because we’re not going to give up on this community. We will fight every single day to make sure you get the infrastructure, the redevelopment aid and certainly the health and environmental aid that you need to get back on your feet.