As JD Vance steps into the prominent role of Vice President of the United States, the spotlight naturally extends to his family, who are now recognized as the nation’s second family. Alongside his wife, Usha Vance, and their three young children, Vance’s personal life is now intertwined with his public service, drawing interest from across the country. The Vance family has transitioned to Washington D.C., making their home at the Vice President’s residence on the grounds of the U.S. Naval Observatory. Their presence was notably felt on Inauguration Day, where Usha Vance stood beside her husband during the historic ceremony, marking the beginning of this new chapter for them all.
Usha Vance and Vice President-elect, Sen. J.D. Vance arrive for service at St. John's Church as part of Inauguration ceremonies on January 20, 2025 in Washington, DC.
Usha Vance: A History-Making Second Lady
Usha Vance, wife of Vice President JD Vance, brings her own remarkable story to the White House. As the daughter of Indian immigrants, she holds the distinction of becoming the first Indian American Second Lady, a significant milestone in American political history. Furthermore, her Hindu faith marks another first, adding to the rich tapestry of diversity within the nation’s highest offices. At 39 years old, Usha is also noted as the youngest Second Lady since Jane Hadley Barkley in 1949, wife of Vice President Alben Barkley, who was 38 when she assumed the role during the Truman administration.
The relationship between JD and Usha Vance began during their time at Yale Law School. They married in Kentucky in 2014, uniting their lives and careers. Usha Vance established herself as a highly respected attorney, beginning her career with a prestigious clerkship for Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts. She then joined the law firm Munger, Tolles & Olson, where she further honed her legal expertise. However, with her husband’s ascent in the political arena, Usha made a career shift. In July 2024, after JD Vance was announced as the Republican vice presidential nominee, she stepped down from her position at Munger, Tolles & Olson, signaling a full commitment to her new role alongside her husband.
Usha Vance’s public presence grew as she took to the stage at the Republican National Convention in July 2024. It was there that she introduced her husband to the nation, offering a personal glimpse into their lives and shared values. In her speech, she highlighted the contrasting backgrounds they came from, stating, “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.” She emphasized the unique opportunity their union represented, adding, “That JD and I could meet at all, let alone fall in love and marry, is a testament to this great country.” Her words resonated with many, underscoring the American ideal of opportunity and the diverse paths that can lead to the highest levels of public service.
Vice President-elect former Sen. J.D. Vance reacts with his family during inauguration ceremonies in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol on January 20, 2025 in Washington, DC.
Meet Ewan, Vivek, and Mirabel Vance: The Vance Children
JD and Usha Vance are the proud parents of three children: Ewan Vance, Vivek Vance, and Mirabel Vance. While JD Vance’s public profile has risen significantly, the couple has consciously chosen to shield their children from the intense glare of the public spotlight. They prioritize their children’s privacy and strive to maintain a sense of normalcy for them amidst the extraordinary circumstances of their parents’ public life.
Despite their parents’ efforts to maintain their privacy, Ewan, Vivek, and Mirabel were present for the momentous occasion of their father’s inauguration as Vice President on January 20th. They stood alongside their parents at the U.S. Capitol, witnessing firsthand this pivotal moment in their father’s career and in American history. This public appearance, though rare, underscored the importance of family support in JD Vance’s life and political journey.
An endearing anecdote that highlights JD Vance’s role as a father occurred in February 2024. While serving as a U.S. Senator for Ohio, Vance took a moment on the Senate floor to celebrate his son Vivek’s fourth birthday. Unable to be with Vivek for his birthday dinner due to his senatorial duties, Vance read aloud Dr. Seuss’s book “Oh, the Places You’ll Go!” into the Senate record. “I’m sorry Vivek that I can’t be with you for your birthday dinner, but I want you to know that Daddy loves you very much,” Vance said, in a heartfelt message to his son, “And I’m going to read this into the record because maybe you can watch it at home.” This personal gesture, captured within the formal setting of the Senate, offered a glimpse into the balance Vance strives to maintain between his public responsibilities and his commitment to his family.
Vice President-elect J.D. Vance arrives to the inauguration of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol, Jan. 20, 2025 in Washington.
Beverly Aikins: JD Vance’s Mother and Staunchest Supporter
Beverly Aikins, JD Vance’s mother, has been a significant figure in his life and journey. Raised in Middletown, Ohio, by his mother and grandmother, Beverly Vance, JD Vance’s upbringing is a story he intimately shared in his bestselling memoir, “Hillbilly Elegy.” The book offers a candid account of his family’s struggles and triumphs, painting a vivid picture of his roots.
Beverly Aikins’ life has been marked by challenges, including her battles with addiction, a topic openly discussed in “Hillbilly Elegy.” Aikins herself has acknowledged these struggles publicly, demonstrating a shared openness with her son about their family’s past. Despite the difficulties, her presence at JD Vance’s inauguration and at the Republican National Convention underscores her unwavering support for her son’s endeavors.
In a revealing interview with the New York Times in 2024, Beverly Aikins spoke about the impact of “Hillbilly Elegy” on their family. “It was heartbreaking in some parts,” she admitted, reflecting on reading her son’s memoir. However, she also emphasized its positive impact, stating, “But it helped us grow as a family, and it opened up a line of communication that we never really had. Addiction in our house was like the elephant in the room. Nobody ever said anything about it. We do now.” The memoir, while publicly sharing personal struggles, served as a catalyst for healing and open communication within the Vance family.
Beverly Aikins’ dedication to her son extends beyond personal support. In their hometown of Middletown, Ohio, she has actively advocated for public recognition of JD Vance’s achievements. She addressed the Middletown City Council in December, requesting that signs be erected to acknowledge his hometown connection. “I just think it would be really nice if we could acknowledge that this is his hometown and put up some signs,” Aikins stated to the council, highlighting his Middletown High School graduation and frequent visits back home. Following her appeal, a city spokesperson confirmed plans to install signs at Middletown’s entry points, proudly declaring it as the “Hometown of J.D. Vance, 50th Vice President of the United States of America.” This local advocacy further illustrates Beverly Aikins’ deep pride and support for her son’s remarkable journey from Middletown, Ohio, to the Vice Presidency.
Beverly Aikins, mother of U.S. Vice President J.D. Vance attends inauguration ceremonies in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol Jan. 20, 2025 in Washington, DC. Donald Trump takes office for his second term as the 47th president of the United States.
In conclusion, as JD Vance embarks on his vice presidential tenure, his family stands as a central part of his narrative. Usha Vance’s historic role as Second Lady, the Vance children navigating life in the public eye, and Beverly Aikins’ enduring support all contribute to a multifaceted picture of the family behind the Vice President. Their journey is now interwoven with the fabric of American political life, drawing attention and interest as they navigate their new roles on the national stage.
