How Tradition Shapes the Path of Vice Presidential Ascensions

Smiling woman in black coat waves among people.

As JD Vance prepares to move into the Vice President’s residence, tradition takes a backseat to current priorities.

At a Glance

  • JD Vance and family set to move into Naval Observatory residence on January 20
  • Vice President Kamala Harris hasn’t extended a formal tour invitation to the Vances
  • Usha Vance inquired about childproofing for their three young children
  • Navy officials provided a house overview to assist with the Vances’ move
  • Harris’ team currently focused on other priorities, including overseas trip and California wildfires

Breaking Tradition: Harris Declines to Host Vance Family

In a departure from longstanding custom, Vice President Kamala Harris has not extended an invitation to Senator JD Vance and his family for a guided tour of the Vice President’s residence at the Naval Observatory. The Vance family, including their three children under eight years old, are set to move into the residence on January 20 without the traditional courtesy visit from the outgoing Vice President.

This break from tradition has raised eyebrows in political circles, as the customary tour has long been seen as a gesture of goodwill during transitions of power. However, the situation underscores the complex realities of modern politics, where pressing national and international issues can take precedence over ceremonial customs.

Vance Family Takes Initiative

Despite the lack of a formal invitation, the Vance family has been proactive in preparing for their move. Usha Vance, the incoming Second Lady, has taken steps to ensure the residence is suitable for their young family. She inquired about childproofing measures, highlighting the practical concerns that come with moving three children under eight into a historic residence.

Initially, the Vances’ inquiries were met with resistance from a Harris appointee. However, communication channels have since opened up with Navy aides, who have been assisting with the transition. Before Christmas, Navy officials provided the Vances with an overview of the house to help them prepare for the move.

Behind the Scenes Communication

While the traditional tour may not be taking place, some communication has occurred between the current and incoming families. Usha Vance had a 40-minute conversation with Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, suggesting that informal channels of communication remain open. Arrangements are being made to accommodate the Vance children at the residence, indicating that practical matters are being addressed despite the absence of a formal meeting.

Spokespeople for both Vance and Harris have declined to comment on the situation, maintaining a veil of privacy over the transition process. This silence from official channels has left room for speculation about the reasons behind the break in tradition.

Historical Context and Current Priorities

It’s worth noting that Vice President Harris herself did not visit the residence before her swearing-in due to her transition being complicated by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Vice President is preparing for an overseas trip and addressing the wildfires in California, which may explain the lack of attention to the traditional residence tour. This shift in focus highlights how immediate national and international concerns can overshadow customary practices in times of transition.

Looking Back and Moving Forward

The current situation stands in contrast to previous transitions. In 2016, then-Vice President Joe Biden and Dr. Jill Biden hosted Mike and Karen Pence at the Naval Observatory shortly after the election, continuing the longstanding tradition. However, each transition brings its own unique circumstances and challenges.

As the Vance family prepares to make the Naval Observatory their home, they are navigating this transition largely on their own terms. While the absence of a formal tour breaks with tradition, it also reflects the evolving nature of political transitions in a rapidly changing world. The focus on practical matters, such as childproofing and logistical arrangements, underscores the personal side of these high-profile moves.

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Harris declines to invite Vance for courtesy visit to VP’s residence

Harris declines to invite Vance for courtesy visit to VP’s residence