
As JD Vance prepares to move his family into the Vice President’s residence, an unexpected break from tradition raises questions about political transitions.
At a Glance
- JD Vance and family are set to move into the Naval Observatory residence on January 20
- Vice President Kamala Harris has not extended a formal tour invitation to the Vances
- The Vance family, with three young children, is navigating logistical preparations independently
- Navy officials provided a house overview to the Vances before Christmas to assist with their move
- Harris’ team is focused on other priorities, including an overseas trip and addressing California wildfires
A Break from Tradition
The transition of power in Washington D.C. often comes with time-honored customs, but the upcoming move of JD Vance and his family into the Vice President’s residence is breaking with recent tradition. Vice President Kamala Harris has not extended a formal invitation to the Vances for a tour of their future home at the Naval Observatory, a courtesy that has been customary in previous transitions.
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 departure from protocol has left the Vance family, which includes three children under eight years old, to navigate the logistical preparations for their move largely on their own. Usha Vance, the incoming Second Lady, has taken the lead in making inquiries about childproofing the residence and ensuring it’s suitable for their young family.
Navigating the Transition
Despite the initial lack of direct communication with the current Vice President’s office, the Vance family has not been left entirely without assistance. Navy officials stepped in to provide a house overview to the Vances before Christmas, helping them prepare for their upcoming move. Additionally, Usha Vance had a 40-minute conversation with Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, presumably to discuss aspects of life in the Naval Observatory residence.
The situation has raised eyebrows, particularly given the contrast with previous transitions. In 2016, for instance, then-Vice President Joe Biden and Dr. Jill Biden hosted Mike and Karen Pence at the residence shortly after the election, maintaining a tradition of hospitality and smooth transitions between administrations.
Focusing on Priorities
While the lack of a formal tour invitation has drawn attention, it’s important to note that Vice President Harris and her team are currently focused on other pressing matters. These include an upcoming overseas trip and addressing the urgent situation with California wildfires. This prioritization of immediate national and international concerns over ceremonial duties reflects the complex demands placed on high-level government officials.
It’s worth remembering that Harris’ own transition into the Vice President’s residence was unconventional. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Harris did not visit the residence before her swearing-in. She eventually moved into the Naval Observatory in April 2021, after necessary repairs were completed.
Looking Forward
As January 20 approaches, arrangements are being made to accommodate the Vance children at the residence. While the transition may not be following the exact playbook of years past, efforts are clearly underway to ensure the incoming Vice President and his family are prepared for their new home. This situation serves as a reminder that political transitions, like the offices themselves, can evolve with changing circumstances and priorities.
As the nation watches this transition unfold, it provides an opportunity to reflect on the balance between maintaining traditions and adapting to current realities in the ever-changing landscape of American politics.
Sources:
Harris declines to invite Vance for courtesy visit to VP’s residence
Harris declines to invite Vance for courtesy visit to VP’s residence