Usha Vance, wife of Republican vice-presidential nominee JD Vance, recently sat down with Meghan McCain on Citizen McCain in a rare public interview. Known for maintaining a low profile despite her husband’s rising political career, Usha offered a candid and occasionally humorous look at her sudden entry into national politics, her family life, and her hopes for the future.
Here are the 10 most compelling takeaways from the interview:
1. Usha Vance Found Out About JD’s VP Pick Just Minutes Before the Announcement
One of the most surprising moments of the interview was Usha revealing that she learned about her husband’s selection as Donald Trump’s running mate only “maybe five minutes” before the public announcement. Her reaction? “It felt like a bolt of lightning.” This unexpected revelation highlights just how quickly her world changed.
2. The Political Spotlight Was Not Part of Her Plan
Usha admitted that she had never envisioned a political life, nor the intense scrutiny that comes with it. A professional attorney and mother of three, she had built a quiet life in Ohio. The sudden thrust into the national spotlight has been an adjustment—and one she’s still navigating.
3. She Finds the Formalities of Public Life Awkward
From being called “ma’am” in public to constantly being accompanied by Secret Service, Usha described the formalities as “odd.” Despite her new role, she still tries to maintain normal routines—going out for coffee in athleisure, attending Pilates, and spending time with her children.
4. Usha Is Not Eyeing a Future in Politics
Unlike some political spouses who embrace the limelight, Usha made it clear that she doesn’t see herself in politics. She sees her role as supportive, saying she’s “just along for the ride.” Her primary goal is to eventually return to Ohio and resume a quieter life.
5. She’s Not Thinking About Becoming First Lady
When Meghan McCain asked whether she was preparing for the possibility of being First Lady, Usha responded with cautious realism: she’s aware it could happen, but she’s not planning for it. “I’m not ruling it out,” she said, “but it’s not my preference.”
6. Family Comes First—Always
Usha spoke warmly about her family, describing how she and JD prioritize their three children despite their busy schedules. She also shared insights on how they raise their kids in an interfaith household—JD is Christian, while Usha is a practicing Hindu.
7. Her Parenting Advice? “Three Kids Is Easier Than You Think”
With Meghan McCain expecting her third child, Usha offered encouragement. “The third one is shockingly easy,” she said, emphasizing that by the time you have three kids, you’ve already figured out a rhythm. It was a moment of shared mom-to-mom connection that many parents will relate to.
8. Strict Rules on Screens and a Summer Reading Challenge
Usha has instituted a “Summer Reading Challenge” for her children to encourage learning and limit screen time. Even during long flights, she bans iPads, opting instead for books and traditional games. She’s committed to raising kids with strong values and intellectual curiosity.
9. She’s Carving Out Time for Herself
Despite her demanding new role, Usha is making time for self-care and personal interests. From Pilates to German language lessons to crafting toys for her children, she’s doing her best to maintain a sense of normalcy and personal growth.
10. She’s a Vegetarian—and JD Has Learned to Bake
One charming tidbit from the interview: Usha Vance is a lifelong vegetarian due to her Hindu faith, and JD has learned to cook accordingly. In fact, he’s taken up baking and often whips up cakes and biscuits for the family—something that’s become a bonding activity in their household.
Final Thoughts
Usha Vance’s conversation with Meghan McCain offered a refreshingly human portrait of a woman navigating immense change with grace, humor, and humility. Whether or not JD Vance ends up in the White House, it’s clear that Usha is committed to being a grounded, supportive partner and a devoted mother first and foremost.
As America watches the 2024 race unfold, Usha’s thoughtful perspective reminds us that behind every public figure is a private person adjusting to extraordinary circumstances.