Usha Vance doesn’t do dishes

Last regular episode of “Standing Room Only” this year! So we thought we’d return to a topic that neither we nor viewers can get enough of: the gossip about JD and Usha Vance. They just keep giving us new material, from weird AI images to her missing wedding ring.

But while we love gossip and laughing at these people, of course there’s a purpose to all this. JD is pushing traditional gender roles that he clearly didn’t believe in when he married Usha. He wants her to change into a plausible tradwife to sell to his fans, but no one is buying the sales pitch.

Divorce him already, Usha

My guest this week is Guardian columnist Moira Donegan. She’s a master at drawing the line between the personal and political, and had a lot to say about how JD’s treatment of his own wife reflects his views on women’s role in general. She also made me laugh by comparing the Vances to the couples that make holiday parties uncomfortable.

Support the progressive journalism you trust. Become a Salon member today!

Encore song of the week: “Apology Tour” by Pelted

Join the conversation: Comments are open for subscribers!

Click the speech bubble icon to leave a comment or click the heart to like this post.

Forwarded this email? Get Standing Room Only in your inbox twice a week.

ALSO FROM SALON

In partnership with

Unlock ChatGPT’s Full Power at Work

ChatGPT is transforming productivity, but most teams miss its true potential. Subscribe to Mindstream for free and access 5 expert-built resources packed with prompts, workflows, and practical strategies for 2025.

Whether you're crafting content, managing projects, or automating work, this kit helps you save time and get better results every week.

Get Your Free Resource Kit