A potentially alarming situation unfolded on Monday when GOP presidential aspirant Vivek Ramaswamy’s private jet experienced an unexpected depressurization. Fortunately, everyone onboard was unharmed as the aircraft made an emergency landing, averting any potential disaster.
While most would have taken a break or postponed commitments, Ramaswamy’s determination shone through. Determined to honor his campaign trail commitments, he said, “I am glad that we can use technology to still engage with one another.” Ramaswamy utilized Zoom to address an audience of roughly 60 attendees from Columbus, Ohio, where he has a residence.
For those unfamiliar with aviation terminology, depressurization is a situation where an aircraft’s cabin doesn’t maintain the oxygen levels vital for human consciousness. The impacts, as explained by Randy Padfield, former COO of Aviation International News, can range from cognitive slowing to, in extreme cases, loss of consciousness due to hypoxia—a deprivation of oxygen that affects the brain.
Such incidents can be terrifying, especially with family onboard. “It was a little bit scary for a hot second there,” Ramaswamy admitted, mentioning that his wife and two children were accompanying him at the time. This hiccup isn’t the first on his campaign trail. Previously, mechanical issues also led to canceled events in Iowa and Nevada. Yet, despite these setbacks, his spirit remains undeterred.
One might ask, why not just fly commercial? Ramaswamy clarified, “Flying private is the fastest way. We’re looking at efficiency to do this.” Considering the frenetic pace of a campaign, this approach is somewhat understandable.
At another campaign event in Iowa, Ramaswamy brought forward a thought-provoking proposal: making Election Day a national holiday. “Single day voting, on Election Day. We will make Election Day a holiday in the United States of America, so there are no complaints about it,” he expressed. To make room for this, he suggested letting go of another existing holiday, pointing out that not every occasion can be considered a holiday.
Ramaswamy’s resilience, adaptability, and innovative ideas make him a candidate to watch. While it’s crucial to discuss policy and the potential future of America, it’s equally enlightening to witness the character and mettle of those who want to lead it.
