“Why not explore Hinduism too?” US Hindu group rebukes JD Vance over comment on wife’s faith

US Vice President JD Vance has sparked controversy after saying he hopes his wife — who is Hindu — might one day convert to Christianity. Although Vance later clarified that he has no intention of pressuring her to change her faith, the remarks continue to draw criticism.

The Hindu American Foundation (HAF) condemned Vance’s comments in a detailed post on X, questioning why he would expect his wife to adopt his religion instead of showing equal interest in hers. The organisation stressed that Hinduism is inherently pluralistic, does not seek converts, and does not require spouses to share the same faith.

HAF also highlighted a rise in anti-Hindu content circulated by some Christian groups online, alleging that attempts are being made to convert Hindus through “unethical means.” The group said Vance’s comments reflected a belief in a single path to salvation — an idea not present in Hinduism.

Calling out parts of Vance’s support base, HAF said some of the loudest voices around him do not appear to believe that religious freedom — “a founding principle of the US” — applies to Hindus. The group urged Vance, as Vice President, to publicly acknowledge the positive impact of Hinduism and the right of Hindus to practice their faith freely.

The controversy began after a video went viral in which Vance, speaking at a Turning Point USA event in Mississippi, said he hoped his wife, Usha — raised in a Hindu household — might eventually “come to Christ.” Vance, who converted to Catholicism in 2019, later issued a clarification, crediting his wife for helping him reconnect with religion but insisting she has “no plans to convert” and that faith is a matter of “God-given free will.”

He also noted that the couple maintains mutual respect in their interfaith marriage, describing Usha’s upbringing as culturally Hindu but not strongly religious.