In an irony underscored by the evident discomfort on their faces, Kamala Harris and Doug Emhoff found themselves playing gracious hosts to JD Vance and his wife, Usha, ahead of the inauguration at the White House. The artificiality of the entire process was palpable, especially given Kamala Harris’ notorious reluctance to meet with the Vance family to help them familiarise themselves with the VP residence.
JD Vance, together with Usha and their three children, moved into the Naval Observatory residence following the inauguration, a move which must have filled the usually ostentatious Kamala Harris with a level of resentment. The Naval Observatory residence, a Queen Ann-style mansion, has consistently hosted vice presidents since the 1970s, even retaining a level of grace amidst the political turmoil.
Contrary to customary proceedings, there were no invitations extended by Kamala Harris to the Vance family for a formal orientation or a tour of the residence. This stark departure from tradition underscores a mindset which places personal sentiment over professional duty, a behavior highly unfitting for a vice president.
Usha Vance, an evidently more considerate figure, reached out to Doug Emhoff’s team for information about childproofing the residence in light of the fact that all three of their children are under the age of eight. The response from Harris’ political appointee was far from hospitable, amplifying the Vances’ struggles with a marked indifference at best.
However, as necessity dictates, communication between the Vances and the Navy who supervise the residence took a much-needed turn. The fact that these crucial communications had to be routed away from VP’s office speaks volumes about the dysfunctional state of affairs within Harris’ team.
After much back-and-forth, Usha Vance and Doug Emhoff reportedly had a 40-minute conversation. While Doug Emhoff’s affability is appreciated, it’s no substitute for the formal reception expected from Kamala Harris herself, contributing yet another reason for the perceived rift between the VP office and its new inhabitants.
The report also pointed out that childproofing measures were taken in the residence under Harris’ watch, though well after other more suitable opportunities for initiation and cooperation had been missed. The delay in an action as simple and essential as safeguarding a vice president’s abode exposes a disturbing lack of forethought within the administration and highlights glaring inadequacies in their handling of domestic affairs.
As an echo to Harris’ apparent obtuseness, her transition back in 2021 was enveloped in disorder. Her inability to show grace and dignity amidst a difficult transition, as evidenced by Donald Trump’s consistent accusations around the credibility of the election, is worryingly reflective of her leadership style.
Despite the lack of formal recognition from Trump, which although disruptive, was not entirely unexpected given the contentious nature of the election, Kamala Harris should have been offered a tour of the VP residence as per standard practice. Contradictorily it was said that Mike Pence’s staff had extended a covert invitation to Harris, which, if true, highlights yet another questionable decision on Harris’ part to decline.
JD Vance was spotted at the White House on the day of inauguration, evidently eager to undertake his new responsibilities. The contrast between Vance’s patience and Harris’ disinterest was plain to see as he waited for Usha to join him before stepping out of the car, while Kamala and Doug waited indifferently.
The subsequent meet-and-greet that unfolded was more of an orchestrated charade with political niceties by rote, than a genuine expression of goodwill and warm welcomes. The foreboding air of tension only served to underline the ongoing diplomatic clumsiness of Harris’ team.
It is quite telling how the simple act of posing for a photograph can expose so much about the undercurrents of our political sphere. With JD Vance standing stoically next to Kamala Harris and Usha Vance beside Doug Emhoff, the forced smiles painted a clear picture of discord and lack of good faith.
One cannot help but speculate about the quality of governance when such superficialities manage to pervade the upper echelons of administration. The dubious actions of Harris serve as a grim reminder of the trivialization of high officer roles, a phenomenon that extends implications much beyond mere White House formalities.