Unexpected Move: Vance Family’s New Home at Vice President’s Residence

Smiling woman in black coat waves among people.

JD Vance’s family prepares for an unconventional move into the Vice President’s residence as tradition takes an unexpected turn.

At a Glance

JD Vance and family set to move into Naval Observatory residence on January 20
Vice President Kamala Harris hasn’t extended formal tour invitation to the Vances
Usha Vance inquired about childproofing for their three young children
Navy officials provided house overview to assist with the move
Harris team focused on other priorities, breaking from traditional transition courtesy

Breaking Tradition: Harris Declines Residence Tour for Vance Family

In a departure from longstanding tradition, Vice President Kamala Harris has not extended a formal invitation to Senator JD Vance and his family for a tour of the Vice President’s residence at the Naval Observatory. The Vance family, including three children under eight, is scheduled to move into the historic home on January 20, marking the beginning of a new chapter in American politics.

Shameful DC coverup.

Kamala has refused requests for JD and Usha Vance to see the VP residence and working spaces – while claiming that she’s focused on a peaceful transition.

The media’s inability to hold Democrats to the same standard they hold Republicans is a fact the…

— Richard Grenell (@RichardGrenell) January 14, 2025

This break from custom has left the Vance family to navigate the transition independently, highlighting a shift in how political transitions are handled in modern times. Usha Vance, concerned about the safety of their young children, has taken the initiative to inquire about childproofing the residence.

Navy Steps In: Assisting the Vance Family’s Transition

Despite initial communication challenges, the Vance family has since established contact with Navy aides responsible for maintaining the residence. In a gesture of cooperation, Navy officials provided the Vances with an overview of the house before Christmas, aiming to facilitate a smoother move-in process.

Usha Vance also engaged in a 40-minute conversation with Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, potentially discussing aspects of life at the Naval Observatory. These interactions suggest that while the traditional tour may not occur, efforts are being made to accommodate the incoming family’s needs.

Harris Administration’s Focus Shifts

The decision to forgo the customary residence tour appears to stem from the Harris administration’s current priorities. Sources indicate that the Vice President’s team is preoccupied with pressing matters, including an upcoming overseas trip and addressing California wildfires. This shift in focus underscores the evolving nature of political transitions and the need to adapt to urgent national and global concerns.

It’s worth noting that Harris herself did not receive a traditional tour before her swearing-in, due the COVID-19 pandemic.

Historical Context and Future Implications

The tradition of outgoing Vice Presidents hosting their successors at the Naval Observatory has been a longstanding courtesy. In 2016, the Bidens hosted the Pences shortly after the election, exemplifying the typical transition process. The current break from this custom raises questions about the future of such political traditions and their relevance in an increasingly complex political landscape.

As the Vance family prepares for their move, arrangements are being made to accommodate their children at the residence. This situation highlights the unique challenges faced by families with young children in high-profile political positions and the need for flexibility in established protocols.