J.D. Vance has taken the oath of office as the 50th Vice President of the United States, marking the beginning of his family's role as the nation's new second family. Vance, alongside President Donald Trump, was inaugurated on January 20, 2025, at the United States Naval Observatory, where he will now reside with his wife Usha and their three children.
Usha Vance, now the first Indian American and first Hindu second lady, witnessed this significant event with pride. At 39, she also makes history as the youngest second lady since the Truman administration, showcasing a remarkable blend of cultural heritage and contemporary values. The couple's relationship began at Yale Law School, where they met during their studies, eventually marrying in Kentucky in 2014.
Usha, daughter of Indian immigrants, previously left her role as an attorney with law firm Munger, Tolles & Olson to support her husband's political career. Speaking on the campaign trail, she recalled, “My background is very different from JD's. I grew up in San Diego, in a middle-class community with two loving parents, both immigrants from India, and a wonderful sister. That JD and I could meet at all, let alone fall in love and marry, is a testimony to this great country.”
Alongside their three children—Ewan, Vivek, and Mirabel—the Vance family embodies a traditional yet modern American household. Although largely private, they made memorable appearances during pivotal moments, such as on Election Day 2024, when the entire family participated together. Interestingly, JD Vance has demonstrated his affection for his children through heartfelt gestures, like reading Oh the Places You'll Go by Dr. Seuss on the Senate floor to celebrate Vivek’s birthday, highlighting the close bond between the siblings.
Vance's roots trace back to Middletown, Ohio, where he was raised by his mother, Beverly Aikins, and his grandmother, who struggled with addiction—a topic he poignantly detailed in his bestselling memoir, Hillbilly Elegy. During his rise through the political ranks, Vance's mother reflected on the transformative power of communication ignited by his book. “It was heartbreaking in some parts,” she told The New York Times. “But it helped us grow as a family, and it opened up a line of communication we never really had.” This insightful perspective emphasizes the importance of acknowledging past struggles and fostering healing within families.
JD Vance stepped onto the national political stage following the release of Hillbilly Elegy, which offered insights on the cultural and socioeconomic struggles of the working class. Aptly describing the disconnect between elite liberal circles and the working-class individuals who supported Trump, Vance's narrative exploded as he explained Trump's significant appeal to white working-class Americans.
On assuming the vice presidency, Vance has embraced the weight of his responsibilities, becoming the second-in-command to a president under whom he initially did not support. Reflecting on his political metamorphosis, Vance noted, “I’m definitely not gonna vote for Trump because I think he’s projecting very complex problems onto simple villains.” Those sentiments, stated during the 2016 campaign, have evidently evolved as he now stands shoulder-to-shoulder with the man he once publicly challenged.
Usha also brings her legal background and experience to her new role. Not only did she clerk for Supreme Court Chief Justices John Roberts and Brett Kavanaugh, but her legal acumen complements JD's political endeavors, fostering teamwork within their public and personal lives. This couple's dynamic has become one of mutual respect, with Usha openly sharing her willingness to support Vance through their new challenges. “I believe in J.D. and I really love him,” she said, adding, “we just are seeing what happens.”
Despite their ascent to high political office, the Vance family ardently maintains privacy, opting to keep their children out of the public spotlight. Their intentional discretion reflects their desire to uphold family values amid the chaotic nature of political life.
Meanwhile, Vance’s mother, Beverly Aikins, continues to support her son's political ambitions, actively advocating for recognition of his achievements within their hometown. Following meetings with the Middletown city council, plans were confirmed to post signs acknowledging, “Middletown, Hometown of J.D. Vance, 50th Vice President of the United States of America” at the city’s entry points, solidifying his legacy within the community.
The Vance family's story embodies resilience and the American dream, from JD’s upbringing through adversity to Usha’s groundbreaking role as second lady. Their unique backgrounds intertwine to create both a political household and one deeply rooted in personal belief and family support, illustrating how past experiences shape public lives.
With the inauguration complete, JD and Usha Vance stand ready to navigate this new chapter as they lead their family and contribute to American society, showing what it means to transition from humble beginnings to the national stage.