Second Lady Usha Vance received heartfelt support from two opposite directions amid the Christianity row, triggered by JD Vance's comment that he hopes for Usha's conversion to Christianity. Indian-origin Congressman Ro Khanna, a staunch critic of JD Vance, and MAGA activist Meghan McCain both shielded the Second Lady from the social media hatred, as Usha Vance made her first public appearance amid the row, accompanying the Vice President on the occasion on Halloween.
Calling Usha Vance an accomplished daughter of immigrants, Ro Khanna said he has always been very harsh on JD Vance and his policies, but his family including their children should not be attacked. "No one has been harsher on @JDVance policy than I have. But his wife is an accomplished daughter of immigrants and they have young kids. Attack on the policies. Leave his family out of it," Khanna, a practising Hindu, said.
On the other side of Khanna's politics, MAGA commentator Meghan McCain said Usha Vance is actually a huge asset and is someone whose appeal crosses party and political lines.
As JD Vance's comment on his wife's faith was seen as his desperate pandering to the MAGA base who would probably not support him for president in 2028 as his wife is not a Christian, McCain said people who think that Usha Vance is JD's biggest political problem knows nothing about Usha Vance's appeal.
"She is not only a huge asset because of her poise, intelligence and grace - but women across the country love and admire her. Our interview had an absolutely enormously positive reaction - feel free to read the comments yourself. In fact I don’t know if I have ever interviewed anyone so universally liked," McCain wrote.
"She is someone whose appeal crosses party and political lines and has given such a huge boost and brought warmth to our Vice President. She is among other things a modern mother and a style icon," McCain wrote. In an interview with McCain, Usha Vance disclosed that she had no intention to convert to Christianity though they are raising their children as Christians.
Even far-right activist Laura Loomer, who is known for her hatred of India, distanced herself from the row as she said: "Believing in God doesn’t make one any more American than someone who doesn’t believe in God. There are many Americans who are loyal, hard working Americans and they don’t necessarily believe in God. And that’s ok too. Humans have free will."
At TOI World Desk, our dedicated team of seasoned journalists and...
Read MoreAt TOI World Desk, our dedicated team of seasoned journalists and passionate writers tirelessly sifts through the vast tapestry of global events to bring you the latest news and diverse perspectives round the clock. With an unwavering commitment to accuracy, depth, and timeliness, we strive to keep you informed about the ever-evolving world, delivering a nuanced understanding of international affairs to our readers. Join us on a journey across continents as we unravel the stories that shape our interconnected world.
Read Less