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The messages, Politico noted, “reveal a culture where racist, antisemitic and violent rhetoric circulate freely — and where the Trump-era loosening of political norms has made such talk feel less taboo among those positioning themselves as the party’s next leaders.”

Common sense and common decency might suggest that prominent GOP leaders would rush to condemn the disgusting texts categorically and to make clear that the party will not tolerate such repulsive garbage. Indeed, it’s only fair to note that some Republicans did exactly that after the Politico report was published. But JD Vance apparently had a different response in mind.

In other words, confronted with Republican texts that were racist and violent — complete with references to gas chambers — Vance’s first instinct wasn't to condemn those responsible for those messages; his first instinct was to downplay the scandal and go after a Democrat.

To the extent that anyone might be persuaded by the Ohio Republican’s unfortunate attempt at clumsy and unnecessary spin, it’s worth emphasizing that Politico’s report was about more than “a college group chat.” The participants in question weren’t just random teens popping off between classes: Some of these Republicans are in their 30s and are currently working for elected officials, ostensibly serving the public. One, Samuel Douglass of Vermont, is even a sitting state senator. (The state’s Republican governor, Phil Scott, wasted little time in calling for Douglass’ resignation.)