Kathrine Frich
The role of a First Lady has long been one of the most watched and least defined jobs in American public life.
Sometimes it is ceremonial, sometimes it is practical, and often it reflects the tone the White House wants to project.
In today’s political climate, even the quieter relationships inside an administration can draw attention, especially when they are rarely seen in public.
Rare public outing
According to Newsner, Usha Vance, the Second Lady of the United States, has made relatively few public appearances since her husband JD Vance became vice president.
That has meant limited visibility for her alongside First Lady Melania Trump.
The two were seen together a few weeks ago during a joint trip to a military base in North Carolina, where they visited military families and schools at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune.
In a separate interview with USA Today, Usha Vance described adjusting to public life while still wanting parts of a normal routine.
“There are things that I miss and things that I’m excited to have moved on from,” she said.
What she said
Newsner reported that Usha Vance was asked about her relationship with Melania Trump, which has largely stayed out of public view.
She said they are different people but get along.
“I’ve enjoyed traveling with her a little bit and talking to her about things like raising kids in this kind of crazy life, about our interests and hobbies and that sort of thing,” Usha Vance said.
“And you know, we’re different people, but different people who can enjoy having conversation together.”
She also praised Melania Trump’s style of working and described her as focused and effective.
“She is very, very focused on doing things her way, and I think very effectively,” Usha Vance said, adding that Melania Trump puts “all of her energy” into every project.
“She’s getting things done, step by step, very methodically. And so that is an inspiration for what I try to do in areas that are a little bit different from what she’s focused on.”
Career put on hold
Before entering the national spotlight, Usha Vance worked as a trial lawyer and served as a clerk at the U.S. Supreme Court and the U.S. Court of Appeals, Newsner reported.
She later worked at Munger, Tolles and Olson, focusing “on complex civil litigation and appeals in a wide variety of sectors, including higher education, local government, entertainment, and technology, including semiconductors.”
After JD Vance was nominated for vice president, the firm issued a statement to People Magazine saying:
“Usha has been an excellent lawyer and colleague, and we thank her for her years of work and wish her the best in her future career.”
Usha Vance also said:
“In light of today’s news, I have resigned from my position at Munger, Tolles & Olson to focus on caring for our family. I am forever grateful for the opportunities I’ve had at Munger and for the excellent colleagues and friends I’ve worked with over the years.”
Sources: Newsner, USA Today, People Magazine
