JD Vance, the bestselling author of “Hillbilly Elegy” and now the Republican vice-presidential nominee, has caught the public’s attention with his religious background, particularly given his marriage to Usha Vance, who hails from a Hindu family.
With religion playing a significant role in American politics, many are curious about Vance’s faith, his family’s religious practices, and what this all means for the nation’s leadership.
Is Vice President JD Vance Catholic or Hindu?
JD Vance identifies as Catholic. Although he grew up in a Protestant setting, he didn’t attend church regularly.
After exploring atheism and engaging in spiritual inquiries, Vance converted to Catholicism as an adult. He was baptized and confirmed in the faith in 2019 at St. Gertrude Priory in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he chose St. Augustine as his patron saint.
His conversion stemmed from his personal beliefs and the influence of Catholics who were significant in his life. His wife, Usha, remains supportive of his faith journey, coming from her own Hindu background.
How Old is JD Vance?
JD Vance was born in 1984, so he’s 40 years old as of 2025.
Will JD Vance Be the Second Catholic Vice President in US History?
If he wins, JD Vance would be the second Catholic vice president in U.S. history. The only other Catholic who has held this position is the current president, Joe Biden, who served as vice president from 2009 to 2017.
What Religion is JD Vance’s Wife Usha Vance?
Usha Vance, originally Chilukuri, grew up in a Hindu household, thanks to her Indian immigrant parents from Andhra Pradesh. She often shares how her Hindu upbringing has positively influenced her life and helped her in supporting JD Vance’s spiritual journey.
The couple tied the knot in 2014 after meeting at Yale Law School, celebrating both a Hindu ceremony and a Western one. Usha has mentioned that raising their children in a home with two faiths revolves around having open conversations and mutual respect.
How Do JD and Usha Vance Raise Their Children?
JD and Usha Vance have three kids and are straightforward about raising them with influences from both Catholicism and Hinduism. They focus on communication and shared values, steering clear of getting bogged down by religious differences.
Usha has pointed out that they “just talk a lot” as a way to navigate their interfaith family life, which reflects a modern take on religious diversity within families.
What Role Does Religion Play in JD Vance’s Public Life?
Vance has discussed how Catholic social teaching shapes his public policy views, particularly in relation to social conservatism and the common good.
He believes that Christianity can help address the fundamental questions regarding American identity in our multicultural and multi-religious society.
