Vance is a rarity in today’s legal environment with her streak of extraordinary accomplishments. Most recently, she made headlines for her behind-the-scenes work in helping her husband, Ohio Senator JD Vance, win his politically contentious Judeo-Christian crusade. At only 39 years old, she has an extraordinary resume. She has already clerked for the highest of high-powered judges, studied at the country’s most prestigious institutions and produced game-changing legal scholarship.
Usha Chilukuri Vance clerked for Supreme Court Chief Justice John Roberts, particularly during a pivotal moment when he authored a 5-4 ruling upholding the controversial “Muslim ban.” Her depth of experience in the judicial system glistens alongside her remarkable pedigree. She went on to graduate from Yale University, Cambridge, and then Yale Law School. As a Yale Law Journal editor, she demonstrated her intellectual chops.
In spite of such a formidable resume, Usha has remained widely under-the-radar during the Trump-Vance campaign. Many observers were struck by her unassuming presence. They caught her on her way to set one day clutching a copy of Homer’s The Iliad, a perfect window into her self-described “bookworm” disposition. Her impact within her household and faith community is profound. JD Vance, in his memoir Hillbilly Elegy, credits Usha with helping him navigate his own educational journey. He remarked that she “always encouraged me to seek opportunities that I didn’t know existed,” underscoring her supportive role in both his personal and professional life.
The power couple’s marriage has often been described by others as defined by mutual respect, ambition and power. Advocating for change Usha Chilukuri Vance has her own political aspirations. If she is able to further build her grassroots and media presence, these ambitions could be realized in the near future. Maya’s recent participation in the campaign has led to speculation about her own ambitions.
Usha’s investment in JD’s political future runs deep. She expressed concern regarding their joint efforts during the campaign, stating, “She’s gonna be mad at me if she quit her job and we don’t win.” This comment not only gives testament to her commitment, but suggests what we can only imagine were the challenges endured by spouses of public figures.