From Different Worlds to Yale

J.D. Vance and Usha Vance met in law school at Yale University in the early 2010s. Both were students in Yale Law School when they began spending time together. Their connection grew during shared classes and assignments, and they soon became a couple.

Usha grew up in San Diego as the daughter of Indian immigrant parents. She graduated from Yale with a bachelor’s degree and later earned a master’s degree from the University of Cambridge. Before meeting J.D., she had already built a strong academic foundation.

Meanwhile, Vance came from a very different background, rising from a working‑class upbringing in Ohio, which he later chronicled in his bestselling memoir Hillbilly Elegy.

Marriage and Family Life

The couple married in 2014 in Kentucky, blending their faiths in an interfaith ceremony. Usha was raised Hindu, and Vance was Christian; their wedding included both traditions.

After their marriage, they settled into family life and careers. The Vances have three children together: two sons, Ewan and Vivek, and a daughter, Mirabel.

Usha continued advancing her legal career after law school. She served as a clerk for prominent federal judges, including Chief Justice John Roberts and Judge Brett Kavanaugh when he sat on the U.S. Court of Appeals for the D.C. Circuit. She later worked in civil litigation before stepping back from legal practice in 2024.

Supporting a Political Rise

As J.D. Vance entered the political spotlight, Usha supported him on the campaign trail during the 2024 election. When Donald Trump chose Vance as his running mate, Usha often appeared with him at campaign events and helped prepare for debates.

With their election victory, Usha assumed the role of Second Lady of the United States, making history as the first Indian‑American and first practicing Hindu to hold the position.

Despite her public role, she has maintained a relatively low political profile and described her priority as “being actually a normal person” as she balances family and official duties.

Faith, Identity, and Influence

The Vances navigate a multi‑faith household. Usha continues to honor her Hindu heritage, while the family raises their children within the Christian tradition.

J.D. Vance has publicly praised Usha’s intelligence, influence, and steady support throughout his career. He has described her as both a partner and a guiding presence in his life.

A Modern American Story

Their story reflects both personal commitment and cultural blending. From law school classmates to political leaders, J.D. and Usha Vance share a life defined by achievement, family, and mutual respect. Their journey continues to attract public interest as they balance national leadership roles with raising their children.