As JD Vance steps into his role as Donald Trump's Vice President Nominee, his wife Usha's evolving political stance is in the spotlight.
The Daily Beast reported that Vance, known for his bestselling book "Hillbilly Elegy," has been a rising star on the right for years and his journey from being a never-Trumper to a pro-Trumper has been well-documented.
Usha Vance, JD's wife, has had a similar journey as she supported Hillary Clinton in 2016 against Trump but that apparently was the beginning of her political journey from the left to the right.
At the time of JD Vance's swearing-in as Ohio's junior senator, Usha Vance was a practicing attorney at Munger, Tolles & Olson, a firm celebrated for its progressive principles. She boasts an impressive academic background with degrees from Yale and Cambridge University, aligning with her initial political leanings as a Democrat.
Despite her prestigious educational and professional background, Usha's political views have undergone significant changes over the years. Originally registered as a Democrat, she had planned to vote for Hillary Clinton in the 2016 presidential elections. However, her political identity has shifted markedly since then.
Following JD Vance's rise to national prominence and his subsequent selection as a vice-presidential candidate, Usha resigned from her position at Munger, Tolles & Olson. This decision came just a day after JD's nomination, signaling her commitment to his political career and their shared future.
Behind the scenes, Usha has been an instrumental figure in JD's public and political life, particularly influenced by the success of his book. Her transition from a career in law to taking on a more active role in JD's political engagements speaks volumes about her adaptability and commitment to their shared goals.
The Vance family's financial disclosures reveal a net worth between $4 million and $10.4 million, including properties in Cincinnati and Alexandria, Virginia. This financial stability plays a crucial role in their ability to navigate the political landscape.
Throughout their public life, the Vances have faced their share of negative press, which they perceive as biased. Together, they view these challenges as hurdles to overcome, strengthening their partnership in the process.
During public appearances and interviews, JD Vance often highlights Usha's significant influence and support. He emotionally recounted at his swearing-in, "I wouldn’t be here without Usha. So thank you, honey, from the bottom of my heart."
Friends and professional acquaintances of Usha have often commented on her adaptability and the non-ideological nature of her early career moves. A Yale Law School graduate remarked that her job as a clerk for Chief Justice John Roberts was not ideologically driven but rather a testament to her ambition.
Furthermore, another person familiar with her career choices noted that Usha was drawn to her former law firm partly due to its family and gender policies, indicating her practical approach to career and family life.
Usha herself has publicly addressed the complexities of being in the public eye, noting on Fox & Friends, "Sometimes I don’t see it all and sometimes I do see it and I think well this is not the JD I know." Her commentary reflects the personal impact of public scrutiny.
As JD Vance continues to establish himself in the political realm, Usha's role remains pivotal. Her journey from a voter for Hillary Clinton to a significant supporter of JD's Republican candidacy illustrates a profound shift, both personally and politically.
According to close friend and adviser, Dan Driscoll, Usha meticulously ensures that JD's public communications reflect his true intentions and character, highlighting her integral role in his public persona.
With JD Vance's ambitions possibly pointing toward a presidential run, Usha's influence and adaptability will undoubtedly be key factors in his political trajectory.
