Usha Vance Responds to New York Times Article with Humor

Usha Vance, the Second Lady, playfully took a jab at the New York Times after claiming that her maternity outfits hold “political meaning.” As she prepares for her fourth child, the wife of Vice President J.D. Vance was featured in an article discussing the influence of pregnancy images in politics. The piece also included insights from Caroline Leavitt, the White House Press Secretary, as well as Katie Miller, host of a podcast and spouse of Stephen Miller, a recent new mother.

The Times’ fashion critic, Vanessa Friedman, highlighted an Instagram post from Vance that showcased her wearing a figure-hugging coral dress while celebrating Father’s Day.

Friedman noted that the simultaneous pregnancies of these significant women in the MAGA movement were, well, perhaps a coincidence, but she pointed out that the administration has a keen eye for aesthetics, even implementing a kind of dress code for men to fit the president’s image. She remarked that collectively, these women create a noteworthy portrait of the administration’s stance on family and reproduction.

After praising how these figures were showcasing their pregnancies, Friedman emphasized that Vance’s role as Second Lady is about representing and humanizing the vice president. By openly sharing her pregnancy journey, she contributes to that representation.

In response to the article, Vance quipped sarcastically, “Now that I know the political significance of the Old Navy $8.75 coral maternity dress I’m wearing, I can’t wait to hear what the New York Times has to say about my elastic waistband pants and compression socks!” She also shared a screenshot of her Old Navy receipt, pointing out the steep discounts on her dress.

The New York Times has yet to respond to any inquiries regarding Vance’s remarks.