In the delightful realm of political theater, a new episode of comical confusion unfolded when President Joe Biden tried to be one of the guys at a military base overseas. In his attempt to engage with the troops, he decided to brave a slice of pizza loaded with jalapeños. The result was nothing short of a spectacle as the commander-in-chief found himself grappling with the spice, seeking water, and perhaps, a bit of dignity. One can’t help but chuckle at the thought of foreign enemies watching a pizza slice nearly take out the leader of the free world.

The troops, noted for their resilience and tough-as-nails demeanor, seemed less than inspired by this spicy ordeal. Their faces did not exactly exude confidence or camaraderie, watching their leader struggle to tame a common snack food. It’s a good thing the nation’s adversaries weren’t relying on jalapeño warfare for their strategic plans. Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump continued to cast a looming shadow of hyper-masculinity, an image Biden’s jalapeño caper would struggle to rival.

Juxtapose this with the recent escapades of JD Vance, a real Marine, cheeringly engaging with the troops at a Marine base in Quantico, Virginia. Vance confidently mingled, exemplifying competence and exuding what many would describe as classic American military valor. His presence seemed to bolster a sense of purpose and sharpness, notably absent in Biden’s jalapeño-fueled encounter.

Some observers even speculate about Vance’s potential political future, possibly eyeing higher stakes come 2028. His platform of patriotism and excellence appears to resonate, seemingly devoid of the diversity trainings and quotas that critics decry as political distraction. If this Marine can translate his prowess on the field into political success, it might just be the kind of leadership the troops—and, perhaps, the country—long for.