US Vice President JD Vance stirred controversy after his comments about his wife’s faith. He said he hoped his wife, Usha, who follows Hinduism, would one day become a Christian. His remarks went viral on social media and drew heavy backlash.

Vance made the comments at the Turning Point USA event in Mississippi. When asked if he wanted his wife to “come to Christ,” he replied that he did, while also stressing her right to choose.

He said, “My wife did not grow up Christian. I think it’s fair to say that she grew up in a Hindu family, but not a particularly religious family in either direction.” Vance explained that they have found a “balanced way” to manage their interfaith marriage.

Vance, who became a Catholic in 2019, credited Usha for helping him reconnect with his faith. He later said his wife “had no plans to convert” and added that faith is a matter of “God-given free will.”

Hindu American Foundation Slams Vance

The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) criticised Vance’s remarks in a long post on X (formerly Twitter). The group said his comments reflected a narrow view of religion.

HAF asked, “If your wife encouraged you to re-engage with your faith, why not reciprocate that and engage with Hinduism too?” It described Hinduism as “inherently inclusive and pluralistic” and said it does not seek to convert anyone.

The group also pointed to “anti-Hindu content being shared online by Christian accounts.” It accused some groups of trying “to convert Hindus through sometimes unethical means.”

HAF added, “Your statements about your wife’s religious heritage reflect a belief that there is only one true path to salvation — a concept that Hinduism simply doesn’t have — and that path is through Christ.”

Call to Respect Religious Freedom

The foundation urged Vance to uphold religious freedom for all faiths. It said, “Some of the most vocal voices in your base seem to not actually believe religious freedom — one of the core concepts this nation was founded upon — should extend to Hindus.”

HAF reminded Vance of his role as Vice President. It said, “You are the VP. It’s more than reasonable (and well within precedent) for a Christian public figure such as yourself to acknowledge the positive impact of Hinduism on Hindus and the rights of Hindus to practice.”

Vance Issues Clarification

After the backlash, Vance clarified his remarks. He said his wife “had no plans to convert” and that he fully respected her beliefs. He also said he would never pressure her to change her faith.

Vance praised Usha for inspiring him to reconnect with Christianity. He said their interfaith marriage is based on mutual respect and shared values.