Usha Chilukuri Vance, married to JD Vance, whom Donald Trump announced as his running mate for the upcoming US presidential elections, exemplifies an impressive blend of credentials and a deep-rooted connection to Indian heritage.
As a prominent litigator at a national firm, Usha Vance is the daughter of Indian immigrants and boasts an illustrious academic background. She earned a bachelor’s degree in History from Yale University and a Master of Philosophy degree from the University of Cambridge.
Having clerked for Supreme Court Justices John Roberts and Brett Kavanaugh, Usha Chilukuri has made significant strides in the legal arena. She grew up in a San Diego suburb, emphasising education and hard work. Her achievements include serving as Managing Editor of the Yale Journal of Law & Technology and Executive Development Editor of The Yale Law Journal.
Following her undergraduate years, Usha furthered her studies as a Gates fellow at Cambridge, engaging with various political groups. Initially a registered Democrat in 2014, her political journey has been dynamic.
Usha and JD Vance met at Yale Law School and wed in Kentucky in 2014, celebrating with a Hindu priest. The couple have three children. Usha has been a pivotal support in JD’s career, aiding in the creation of his memoir, Hillbilly Elegy, which was later adapted into a film by Ron Howard.
Although she rarely appeared publicly with her husband during his Ohio Senate campaign, Usha Vance’s influence has been undeniable. As the US presidential elections approach, Trump confirmed JD Vance as his Vice President pick on social media, highlighting the significance of this choice.
AI Mason, a US-based real estate investment advisor and entrepreneur, commented, “Usha Vance is a highly accomplished attorney and daughter of Indian immigrants. She knows the Indian culture and can greatly assist her husband in strengthening strong US-Bharat relations.”
In a Fox & Friends interview, Usha and her husband discussed their differing faiths and the potential VP pick. Usha highlighted JD’s hard work and creativity, explaining her support rooted in shared religious values and personal experiences.
JD Vance, originally James David Bowman, faced a challenging childhood in Middletown, Ohio, raised by his grandparents after his father left and his mother struggled with addiction. The Trump campaign stressed on a message of unity, contrasting past criticisms of political opponents, as Trump prepares for a rematch with President Biden in the 2024 elections.
