How US Vice President-elect JD Vance found love in Indian-origin Usha Chilukuri, know their story

JD Vance and Usha Chilukuri may have come from completely different worlds, but their lives came together in a remarkable way. Vance, raised in a tough Ohio community, grew up under challenging circumstances. With a mother struggling with addiction, he was primarily raised by his grandmother, who helped him survive the difficulties of his youth. On the other hand, Usha Chilukuri was born to Indian immigrant parents in California. Her father, a mechanical engineer from IIT, and her mother, a marine biologist, placed a high value on education and success, creating a strong foundation for Usha’s academic and professional ambitions.

Their paths crossed at Yale Law School, where the two collaborated on a major writing assignment, sparking a friendship that would later blossom into a romance. Usha once said of their initial bond, “We were friends first; I mean, who wouldn’t want to be friends with JD?” Their friendship eventually grew into something deeper. Vance described his early feelings for Usha in his memoir Hillbilly Elegy, saying he was "heartsick" and couldn't stop thinking about her, noting that friends saw just how strongly he felt.

As their relationship developed, Usha helped Vance navigate social circles and environments that were new to him, bridging gaps in their backgrounds with understanding and patience. However, like any relationship, they faced their share of challenges. In one instance, Vance recalls how he stormed out of a hotel room after a stressful interview, only to later apologize. Usha, although upset, responded calmly, telling him through tears that “it was never acceptable to run away.” This experience helped Vance learn and grow within their relationship, giving him a new level of emotional maturity.

In 2014, the couple married, blending their different cultural traditions and values. Usha introduced Vance at the Republican National Convention, remarking that their marriage was “a testament to this great country.” She described how her “meat-and-potatoes” husband adapted to her vegetarian diet and even learned to cook Indian food for her family.

Today, JD Vance, a venture capitalist and best-selling author, is set to serve as a U.S. Senator, with Usha by his side. Their unique journey highlights the strength of their partnership and how love and understanding can overcome even the most diverse of backgrounds.

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