The inauguration of Vice President J.D. Vance was filled with ceremonial elegance, but what stood out most wasn’t the political gravitas—it was the presence of his family. Dressed in coordinating dark blue suits and ties, J.D. stood alongside his wife, Usha, and their three young children: Ewan, Vivek, and little Mirabel. The unity and pride they displayed reflected the significance of the moment, not just for the country but for their family. For Vance, the ceremony marked a remarkable personal journey—only two years after his first political win in Ohio, he stood taking the oath of office, hand on the Bible, while Usha supported him both literally and symbolically by his side.
Usha held their youngest daughter, Mirabel, close, while the older boys, Ewan and Vivek, stood attentively. The boys, dressed just like their father, mirrored a moment of generational unity. But it was Mirabel who, despite her young age, unexpectedly became the heartwarming focal point of the day.
Mirabel’s Unforgettable Moment
Amidst the formal setting and historical importance, it was two-year-old Mirabel who effortlessly softened the mood. As she rested in her mother’s arms, her thumb found its way into her mouth, a gesture familiar to any parent of a toddler. But what truly caught the public’s eye were the playful bandages wrapped around her tiny fingers.
To many watching, this innocent detail stood out against the grandeur of the Capitol steps. It served as a tender reminder of the simple, relatable nature of childhood. In a world of formal suits, speeches, and expectations, Mirabel showed up just as she was—a little girl navigating a big day with her own small comforts. The internet responded quickly, with users on social media expressing admiration. One post read, “I think the whole country can come together and agree that JD Vance’s daughter sucking her thumb with those kid bandages on her other fingers is totally adorable.” Another person remarked, “JD Vance’s daughter covering herself with bandaids just ahead of an important event is an iconic toddler move.” As someone watching these moments unfold, I couldn’t help but smile at how easily a child’s authenticity could bring people together.
A Family that Resonates with the Nation
More than just their daughter’s charming presence, the Vance family as a whole gave the day a sense of warmth. A touching photograph showed J.D. kneeling to talk to his sons, one of whom clung to a beloved stuffed bear—a small but poignant image. It reminded me that even on days meant for history books, children carry with them what matters most: comfort, connection, and the little things that make them feel safe.
Usha also drew attention for her graceful presence. Her soft pink tea-length dress paired with a custom Oscar de la Renta cashmere coat was praised widely, yet her appearance was more than just fashion—it represented pride, poise, and a significant step in representation. As the daughter of Indian immigrants raised in San Diego, Usha’s new role as the nation’s Second Lady holds personal and cultural meaning. Her journey, from law school at Yale to public life in Washington, speaks of quiet strength and accomplishment.
Private Roots, Public Life
J.D. and Usha Vance have been intentional about protecting their family’s privacy, allowing only occasional glimpses into their lives. They married in 2014 after meeting in law school, and together they now raise three young children. Ewan, their firstborn, arrived in 2017, followed by Vivek in 2020, and Mirabel in late 2021.
Mirabel’s birth was announced by J.D. in a heartfelt Instagram post, now deleted, where he shared a photo from the hospital. “We were blessed with an early Christmas present this year. Everyone please meet Mirabel Rose Vance, our first girl. Mama and baby both doing great, and we’re feeling very grateful this Christmas season,” he wrote.
What stands out about the Vance family is how they blend public service with personal connection. A particularly touching example of this came in February 2024, when J.D. read Oh, the Places You’ll Go! on the Senate floor in honor of Vivek’s fourth birthday. “I’m sorry that I can’t be with you for your birthday dinner,” he said. “But I want you to know that Daddy loves you very much. And I’m going to read this into the record because maybe you can watch it at home.” It was a rare, genuine moment in a space often dominated by policy and politics.
What Truly Matters
I think the whole country can come together and agree that JD Vance’s daughter sucking her thumb with those kid bandages on her other fingers is totally adorable. pic.twitter.com/EYTC2xjsdS
— Katy M. Clark (@ExperBadMom) January 20, 2025
Despite the weight of the day’s historical importance, the lasting impression for many came from the simple, heartfelt scenes—Mirabel with her tiny bandages, the quiet bond between a father and his sons, and a mother embodying both elegance and resilience. These unscripted family moments brought warmth and relatability to the occasion, grounding the political spectacle in something much more universally understood: love and togetherness.
We were blessed with an early Christmas present this year. Everyone please meet Mirabel Rose Vance, our first girl. Mama and baby both doing great, and we’re feeling very grateful this Christmas season pic.twitter.com/SMlpG70tqY
— JD Vance (@JDVance) December 21, 2021
In an era where division often overshadows unity, a toddler’s sweet quirks and a family’s sincerity reminded us of what truly connects us. One observer said it best: “J.D. Vance has the CUTEST daughter. She is absolutely adorable.” It’s a sentiment I wholeheartedly share. Moments like these don’t just make headlines—they make history feel human.
