Vice President Kamala Harris has broken with tradition by declining to extend a formal invitation to incoming Vice President JD Vance for a tour of the Naval Observatory residence. The decision has left the Vance family to navigate their move without the usual guidance. How are the Vances preparing for their move without the customary tour?
Vance Family’s Transition to Naval Observatory
JD Vance and his family are set to move into the Vice President’s official residence at the Naval Observatory on January 20. The transition, however, has taken an unconventional turn as Vice President Kamala Harris has not extended the customary invitation for a residence tour to the incoming family.
Usha Vance, JD Vance’s wife, has been proactive in preparing for the move. She has inquired about childproofing measures for their three children, all under eight years old, highlighting the family’s unique needs in this transition.
Vance lovingly describes how he and his wife grew up in America where they were taught to think of people as people and not their skin color.
He adds, “I want us to think about all of our kids, whatever the color of their skin, they’re just our babies, they’re American babies.” pic.twitter.com/7Phj0hecQo
— Paul A. Szypula 🇺🇸 (@Bubblebathgirl) October 16, 2024
Communication and Preparations
Initial inquiries by the Vances were initially rebuffed by a Harris appointee. However, communication channels have since been established with Navy aides, who are assisting with the transition process.
Navy officials provided a housing overview to the Vances before Christmas to aid in their move preparations. Additionally, Usha Vance had a 40-minute conversation with Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, suggesting some level of informal communication between the families.
Usha Vance: JD's "goals in this new role are the same that he has pursued for our family — to keep people safe, to create opportunities to build a better life, and to solve problems with an open mind." pic.twitter.com/3Jr1LHnJ6q
— NEWSMAX (@NEWSMAX) July 18, 2024
Breaking from Tradition
The lack of a formal tour invitation from Harris marks a departure from historical precedent. In 2016, then-Vice President Joe Biden and Dr. Jill Biden hosted Mike and Karen Pence at the residence shortly after the election, maintaining the tradition of a smooth transition.
Harris’ team is currently focused on other priorities, including an overseas trip and addressing California wildfires. This shift in focus reflects the evolving nature of political transitions and the competing demands on high-level officials.
