Second Lady Usha Vance rarely steps in front of the cameras. But when she does, it’s clear she values honesty over polish.
In a recent chat with Fox & Friends’ Ainsley Earhardt, Usha offered a personal look into her family life with Vice President JD Vance and their kids, all while rolling out her new Summer Reading Challenge for children nationwide.
The interview drew mixed reactions—some called it “awkward,” others loved the authenticity. One social media user summed it up:
“Usha Vance is lovely, gracious, and smart… and clearly a bit shy on camera. It’s real and refreshing.”
From Childhood Reads to Backyard Bugs
Usha grew up in a modest household surrounded by stacks of books—a love she’s passing down to her own kids today.
“My parents never hovered, but they always pushed us to learn,” she said. “Books were everywhere—on the nightstand, on the floor. They just set the example.”
Now, she and JD’s boys have moved on from dinosaurs to a fascination with bugs. Their shelves are full of insect guides—some, she admits with a grin, she wouldn’t choose for herself.
“There are plenty of books around here I wouldn’t normally read,” she joked.
A Challenge to Spark Imagination
On June 1, Usha officially launched the Second Lady’s 2025 Summer Reading Challenge. Open to kids in grades K–8, the challenge asks them to read 12 books by September 5. Participants can draw or write about what they’ve read and send in their completed forms for a shot at prizes—including a trip to Washington, D.C.
“Adventure, imagination, and discovery are all within reach—right inside the covers of a book,” the challenge’s letter promises.
Every child who finishes will receive a certificate and a small prize, and be entered in a national drawing. One lucky reader (and a parent or guardian) will be invited to visit the capital, after the usual security checks.
“My aim is to find small ways to use my platform to push back against bigger issues,” Usha explained. “This isn’t everything, but it’s a good start.”
A National Spin on a Familiar Idea
The idea, Usha said, was born from her own childhood memories—and from how much parents love to see those same summer reading traditions continue.
“I remember doing these challenges as a kid,” she said. “But I don’t know of any that are truly available to kids all over the country.”
The challenge is free, easy to join, and open to all. A downloadable packet on the White House website outlines the steps, provides a log, and—of course—includes a legal waiver that gave some online viewers “science fair meets Capitol Hill” vibes.
Still, Usha’s tone throughout the interview stayed calm and sincere. She’s less interested in PR splash than in making a difference.
“We hope you’ll join us this summer,” the letter closes. “Let the reading adventures begin!”
Bottom line? Usha Vance might not love the camera, but she’s shining a light on something she believes in—and if that means a slightly awkward clip or two, that’s perfectly fine by her.
