Another day, another instance of someone disrespecting the first Black vice president of the United States.
On Friday, Vice President Kamala Harris presided over the swearing-in of newly elected officials during a joint session of Congress.
Nebraska Senator Deb Fischer‘s husband, Bruce, found himself at the center of controversy after refusing to shake the Vice President’s hand, an act captured in a viral video.
In the brief clip, Harris is seen congratulating Senator Fischer with a smile and grace. When she extended her hand to the Senator’s husband, he declined to reciprocate, avoiding eye contact. Harris handled the moment with poise, offering a light chuckle before continuing her official duties.
The disrespect is disgusting. Sen Deb Fischer’s (R-NE) husband refused to shake hands with Vice President Kamala Harris at the swearing in. pic.twitter.com/O1jUe7nHZm
— Fly Sistah 🪷 (@Fly_Sistah) January 6, 2025
The incident is now a topic of conversation on social media with critics saying the refusal is a sign of disrespect toward the nation’s first female Vice President, who is also the first Black and South Asian person to hold the office.
This is yet another example of the disrespect Vice President Harris has endured over the years. From mispronouncing her name to questioning her identity as a Black woman, the disdain from the “other side” has been relentless and continues to escalate.
Supporters of Fischer’s husband, however, have offered alternate explanations, suggesting the moment may have been misinterpreted. They argue that personal discomfort or unfamiliarity with public ceremonies could have influenced his actions, though no formal statement has been issued by the Senator or her husband.
