Usha Vance reflects on expanding her family while making vice presidential history
In a recent interview with NBC News, Second Lady Usha Vance offered a personal look into a decision that carries both private meaning and historical significance. She and Vice President J.D. Vance are preparing to welcome their fourth child while he is in office, marking the first time a sitting vice president’s family has done so since 1870.
The conversation, conducted by NBC News senior national correspondent Kate Snow, aired in part on TODAY on March 30 and explored how the couple arrived at this moment in their family life.
A personal decision shaped over time
Speaking to NBC News, Vance described how the idea of expanding their family evolved gradually rather than suddenly.
“People have asked me if we’re going to have a fourth baby, and I’ve never closed the door on that,” she said. She explained that her perspective shifted after having her second child, noting that she “didn’t feel quite done,” which ultimately led to welcoming a third.
Over time, she said, the possibility of a fourth child became something she increasingly embraced rather than questioned. “I knew that I’d be happy if we only had three kids, and I knew that I’d be happy if we had four,” she told NBC News. “And so here we are.”
The Vances currently have three young children: Ewan, 8, Vivek, 6, and Mirabel, 4. The couple publicly shared in January that they are expecting another child.
The significance of the moment extends beyond the family itself. According to NBC News, the last time a vice presidential family welcomed a child during a term in office was in 1870, when Vice President Schuyler Colfax and his wife Ellen had a son.
Vance acknowledged that she was not initially aware of the historical context. “I learned that after I was pregnant,” she said, laughing during the interview.
Adjusting to pregnancy in public life
Now 40, the second lady also reflected on how this pregnancy differs from her previous experiences. While she described it as going well, she noted practical changes tied to her current role.
“There are some differences, obviously,” she said, explaining that her daily routine now involves more formal appearances. She contrasted that with earlier pregnancies, when she often worked from home and dressed more casually.
Transportation has also become a factor. “I have to ride in the back seat now, so I get carsick all the time,” she told NBC News.
Despite these adjustments, Vance’s remarks centered on a sense of contentment with her family’s path, describing a decision shaped by both reflection and readiness.
In the same wide-ranging interview, she also discussed her role as a trusted advisor to the vice president and broader questions about the future, including whether J.D. Vance may pursue a presidential run in 2028.
