Ten things to know about Usha Chilukuri
1. Background and Education
Usha Chilukuri Vance was born to Indian immigrants in San Diego, California. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in History from Yale University and later earned a Master of Philosophy from the University of Cambridge as a Gates Cambridge Scholar.
2. Legal Career
After law school, Usha clerked for two Supreme Court Justices: John Roberts and Brett Kavanaugh. She has worked as a trial lawyer at the law firm Munger, Tolles & Olson, where she was recognized for her legal expertise.
3. Marriage to JD Vance
Usha met her husband, JD Vance, at Yale Law School. They married in 2014, a year after graduating. Their wedding included a Hindu ceremony, reflecting their cultural heritage.
4. Family
The couple has three children: Ewan, Vivek, and Mirabel. They reside in Cincinnati, Ohio.
5. Political Involvement
Usha has been an active supporter of her husband’s political career, particularly during his campaign for the Ohio Senate seat and now as he runs for Vice President alongside Donald Trump.
6. Cultural Heritage
Usha is proud of her Indian roots, and her family emphasizes the importance of education. Her grandaunt in India, a 96-year-old professor, serves as a reminder of their strong academic background.
7. Role in JD Vance’s Success
Usha played a significant role in helping JD organize his thoughts for his memoir, “Hillbilly Elegy,” which explores the social decline in rural America. The book became a bestseller and was adapted into a film in 2020.
8. Political Registration
Usha was registered as a Democrat until 2014, when she switched to the Republican Party, aligning with her husband’s political views.
9. Public Appearances
Usha made her political debut at the Republican National Convention, where she introduced JD Vance, showcasing her growing role in the political arena.
10. Influence on US-India Relations
Experts believe that Usha’s background and understanding of Indian culture may help JD Vance navigate diplomatic ties between the United States and India, enhancing his political strategy.