Trump jokes about choosing JD Vance's wife Usha as US Vice President
U.S. President Donald Trump recently expressed that he would have chosen Usha Chilukuri Vance, the wife of Vice President JD Vance, as his vice president, praising her intelligence while joking that the "line of succession" prevented such a choice. Usha, 39, made history as the first Indian-American and Hindu Second Lady when her husband took office as the 50th Vice President. At the inauguration, Usha held the Bible in one hand and their daughter, Mirabel Rose, in the other, as JD took the oath of office. Raised in a middle-class Indian immigrant family in San Diego, Usha is a lawyer with significant experience, including clerking for Supreme Court Justices Brett Kavanaugh and John Roberts. Her marriage to JD, who she met at Yale Law School, reflects the diverse and inclusive nature of American society. The couple has three children, and Usha’s rise to Second Lady symbolizes the increasing political influence of Indian-Americans. Trump’s comments highlighted her impressive professional credentials and personal qualities, showing the Vances as a power couple in American politics. Usha’s story reflects both personal achievement and the broader political evolution of minority groups in the U.S.
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In a candid and humorous moment, U.S. President Donald Trump revealed that if given the chance, he would have selected Usha Chilukuri Vance, the wife of Vice President JD Vance, as his vice president. Trump, speaking to a crowd after his swearing-in as the 47th President, described Usha as “smarter” than her husband, but acknowledged that the “line of succession” prevented such a choice. This light-hearted comment, which drew laughter from the audience, highlighted Usha’s brilliance and her significant role as a political figure in her own right.
Usha Chilukuri Vance, 39, made history on Monday as she became the first Indian-American and Hindu Second Lady of the United States, a role she assumed after her husband, JD Vance, was sworn in as the 50th Vice President. At the inauguration, Usha stood out in a pink coat, holding the Bible in one hand and their daughter, Mirabel Rose, in the other, as her husband took the oath of office. Her appointment as Second Lady also makes her one of the youngest individuals to hold this position, being just a year older than Jane Hadley Barkley, who was the wife of former Vice President Alben Barkley.
Trump’s praise for Usha’s intellect and capabilities sparked both laughter and admiration. “I would have chosen her, but somehow the line of succession didn’t work that way,” Trump remarked, referencing the constitutional constraints on selecting a spouse for such a high office. Despite the humor, the statement underlined Usha’s impressive qualities, both professionally and personally, and her importance in the Vance family dynamic.
Usha’s accomplishments extend far beyond her status as the Second Lady. Raised in a middle-class Indian immigrant family in San Diego, Usha’s career has been shaped by her legal prowess. She clerked for Supreme Court Justices Brett Kavanaugh and John Roberts, further cementing her credentials as a legal professional. Her deep faith as a Hindu and her personal connection to her husband’s faith journey have been important aspects of their relationship, with JD frequently acknowledging how Usha’s intellect and grounded nature have guided him in his own career.
Usha and JD met at Yale Law School and married in 2014, with their ceremony blessed by a Hindu priest. The couple now has three children, sons Ewan and Vivek, and daughter Mirabel. Their union is not just one of personal commitment but also a reflection of the evolving political landscape in the U.S., where Indian-Americans and other minorities are playing an increasingly active role in national politics.
At the Republican National Convention in 2024, Usha spoke about her unique journey, contrasting her immigrant upbringing with JD’s background, which resonated with many voters. “That JD and I could meet at all, let alone fall in love and marry, is a testament to this great country,” she said, highlighting the diverse and inclusive nature of American society.
Who is Usha Chilukuri Vance?
Usha Chilukuri Vance is an accomplished lawyer and the daughter of Indian immigrants. Raised in California, she went on to study at Yale Law School, where she met her husband, JD Vance. Usha’s legal career includes clerking for Supreme Court Justices Brett Kavanaugh and John Roberts, and she is known for her sharp legal mind and public service.
As Second Lady, Usha brings a fresh perspective to the role. Her background as a Hindu, the daughter of Indian immigrants, and her professional achievements mark a significant step forward in diversifying the political sphere. Usha's rise reflects the increasing influence of Indian-Americans in U.S. politics, as seen in the growing number of candidates from the community running for national offices.
Her role as a supportive partner to JD Vance is just as significant. Their relationship is one built on mutual respect, faith, and shared values, making Usha a key figure in JD’s political career. The Vances' story is emblematic of the American Dream and highlights the role that Indian-American communities play in shaping U.S. politics.
In conclusion, Usha Chilukuri Vance is not only a remarkable figure in her own right but also a symbol of the evolving face of American politics. Her ascent to the position of Second Lady is a historic achievement, one that will inspire future generations of Indian-Americans and women in politics.