U.S. Vice President JD Vance made an unexpected stop in Lexington, North Carolina, on Wednesday morning, drawing both curiosity and excitement from locals and NASCAR fans alike. His visit to Richard Childress Racing came as part of a private fundraising event, catching even longtime team personnel off guard. The surprise appearance comes amid Vance’s broader tour promoting President Donald Trump’s tax cut plan and supporting law enforcement initiatives, making his presence at one of NASCAR’s most historic teams all the more noteworthy.
Key Highlights
- Vice President JD Vance visited Richard Childress Racing in Lexington for a private fundraising event.
- The visit included a 25-vehicle motorcade with local first responders assisting in security.
- Locals and visitors were caught off guard, creating traffic disruptions near the RCR campus.
- Richard Childress has previously hosted both Donald Trump and JD Vance at NASCAR events.
- RCR continues to field full-time cars in both the Cup and Xfinity Series, maintaining its historic presence in NASCAR.
Surprise Stop at Richard Childress Racing
The Vice President’s visit to the Richard Childress Racing campus was a remarkable spectacle for those nearby. Visitors at the RCR Museum were surprised when traffic came to a standstill due to a convoy of black SUVs, emergency vehicles, and flashing lights.
“We were just on our way, and we stopped at the Dollar Tree, and we were detained because of the traffic.”
“Well, we were just wondering which vehicle he was in because there were so many vehicles, including emergency vehicles, and so it was just very surprising.” – Carolyn Cofield
This private engagement provided Vance an opportunity to connect with one of NASCAR’s most historic teams, while RCR staff had little notice before his arrival.
"Richard Childress Racing CEO and Chairman Richard Childress says even he was caught off guard by the vice president [@JDVance's] visit. 'To see him, yes, I will support him in any way I can or whenever, wherever I need to, I will.'" – @ABC45TV https://t.co/NLruYcivjR
— Adam Stern (@A_S12) September 25, 2025
Political Presence at NASCAR’s Historic Team
Richard Childress Racing, widely recognized for the legendary No. 3 car driven by Dale Earnhardt, has a long history of intersecting with political figures. Vance’s appearance follows previous visits by President Donald Trump to RCR events, including the Coca-Cola 600 in May 2024 and Daytona 500 pre-race activities in 2025.
“To see him, yes, I will support him in any way I can or whenever, wherever I need to, I will.” – Carolyn Cofield
RCR also recently paid tribute to the late conservative activist Charlie Kirk with decals on its Cup and Xfinity Series cars, demonstrating the team’s ongoing engagement in political and social matters.
NASCAR and Community Engagement
Vance’s motorcade included 25 vehicles with assistance from local first responders, including North Carolina state troopers, Greensboro firefighters, and Forsyth County paramedics. Fans and visitors were captivated by the sudden convergence of politics, public safety, and NASCAR tradition on the RCR campus. The visit underscored NASCAR’s reach beyond racing, showing how the sport can intersect with broader societal and political initiatives.
RCR fields two full-time cars in the Cup Series, the Nos. 3 and 8 driven by Austin Dillon and Kyle Busch, and two full-time cars in the Xfinity Series. The teams will be back on track this weekend at Kansas Speedway, continuing the legacy of performance and community involvement that has defined the organization for decades.
News in Brief: Vice President’s Sudden Visit Shakes Up RCR Campus
Vice President JD Vance made a surprise visit to Richard Childress Racing in Lexington, N.C., as part of a private fundraising event on Wednesday, Sept. 24. The 25-vehicle motorcade included local first responders and caused temporary traffic delays. RCR, known for its iconic No. 3 car and 16 championships, has previously hosted both Trump and Vance at major events. The team recently honored Charlie Kirk with tribute decals. RCR fields full-time cars in both Cup and Xfinity Series, with races continuing at Kansas Speedway this weekend. Share your reactions and NASCAR memories in the comments section below.
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