US Vice President JD Vance Defends Interfaith Marriage Amid Conversion Remarks Backlash

US Vice President JD Vance has defended his remarks expressing hope that his Hindu-raised wife, Usha, might one day convert to Christianity, while emphasizing he respects her free will and that she has no plans to convert. Speaking at a Turning Point USA event, Vance highlighted that their marriage, which blends Christian and Hindu backgrounds, is grounded in mutual respect and trust, and that they have chosen to raise their children in the Christian faith. Vance, a convert to Catholicism, condemned accusations of "anti-Christian bigotry" in response to his comments, stating that sharing Christian beliefs is natural for believers. Despite political backlash accusing him of disrespecting his wife's religion, Vance clarified that Usha encouraged him to reengage with his faith and often attends church with him. The couple's approach reflects a balance between his Christian beliefs and her Hindu upbringing, with their children participating in Christian traditions such as First Communion. Vance's statements received applause from a conservative audience, underscoring ongoing discussions about faith and interfaith marriage within political discourse.