The incoming Vance family will not receive a pre-inaugural tour of the vice president’s residence at the Naval Observatory, according to two sources familiar with Senator J.D. Vance’s transition plans. Vice President Kamala Harris has not extended the customary invitation to the family, a gesture that has become a tradition in recent years.
Harris herself did not tour the residence before assuming office, citing the unique circumstances of Donald Trump’s efforts to overturn the 2020 election and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. However, the lack of an invitation this time follows a particularly contentious campaign. During a November rally, Vance referred to Harris as “trash” and frequently attacked her racial identity alongside then-candidate Donald Trump.
Harris and Vance have not spoken since the November 2024 election, a Vance adviser told CNN. While Harris conceded the race with a call to President-elect Trump, she has not directly communicated with the incoming vice president.
Traditionally, outgoing vice presidents have welcomed their successors to the Naval Observatory. In November 2016, then-Vice President Joe Biden met with Vice President-elect Mike Pence for a tour and lunch. Similarly, in 2008, Vice President Dick Cheney hosted Biden at the residence for a briefing and informal visit.
Despite the absence of a formal invitation, there has been limited coordination. A source familiar with the situation said that the Vance family held a call with the Naval Observatory’s Navy facilities team in December to discuss logistical details about the residence and their upcoming move. Additionally, Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff and incoming Second Lady Usha Vance reportedly spoke for 45 minutes last week, though the contents of their conversation were not disclosed.
The official vice president’s residence is located on the grounds of the U.S. Naval Observatory, just a few miles from the White House.
