JD Vance, the Vice President of the United States, is selling his home located in Alexandria's Del Ray neighborhood for nearly $1.7 million. This sale marks the end of the Vance family's time living among the overwhelmingly liberal community, having moved there only two years ago.
Vance purchased the five-bedroom, three-and-a-half-bath home for approximately $1.6 million, boasting significant features such as off-street parking, a guest house, and even an outdoor kitchen. Given the current political dynamics, the sale raises questions about who might move in next.
Del Ray, known for its trendy atmosphere and artist-friendly environment, is not commonly thought of as the ideal neighborhood for prominent conservatives. During the 2020 election, the neighborhood overwhelmingly supported Joe Biden and Kamala Harris, and the area has been characterized by its bohemian vibe—which seems at odds with Vance's MAGA philosophy.
Vance and his wife, Usha, largely kept to themselves during their time living there. Usha was often seen at Gustave Boulangerie, the local coffee shop, picking up her daily mocha. Yet, neighbors noted how the Vances were seldom spotted at any neighborhood events, maintaining a low profile even amid heightened security brought on when Trump selected Vance as his running mate last July.
Following this choice, security measures intensified around the Vance home, with the U.S. Secret Service implementing frequent roadblocks and closures around the nearby park. Residents expressed growing frustration as the increased police presence became the new normal, spawning graffiti messages supporting Kamala Harris on the barricades erected around the park.
This uneasy atmosphere led to unique interactions between the Vance family and local residents. Neighborhood political tensions culminated last year as different factions placed political signs and banners intended to be visible from the Vance household. Some advocated for Vance's presence, stating “Keep JD in Del Ray,” but it was clear their intentions were more about making their political stance known than showing goodwill.
Despite the political agitation, Vance and his family remained mostly distanced from these neighborhood activities, opting for the relative safety and privacy their home offered.
Now, as they prepare to depart from their once-controversial residence, the question remains: who will take over? The listing has sparked speculation about whether another figure from the Trump administration might seize the opportunity to settle down in the increasingly right-leaning Virginia suburbs.
Neither Vance nor his representative responded to inquiries about the listing at the time of reporting. Nevertheless, the house stands ready for potential buyers, reflecting on the Vance family's tenure there, which was heavily impacted by political identity, security measures, and community interaction.
The Vances’ stint at their Del Ray abode shows how personal and political lives intertwine, particularly for figures such as JD Vance, living at the intersection of American politics and local community dynamics. Listing the home for $1.7 million not only signals the end of this chapter for the Vances but also reflects the changing political attitudes within the surrounding neighborhoods of Virginia.
Will the influx of new residents change the political dynamics of Del Ray? The community watches closely as the for-sale sign hangs prominently outside, anticipating who might become the new homeowner next.