Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Jul 4: US President Donald Trump showered praise on Second Lady Usha Vance during a special Independence Day edition of her children's literacy podcast, describing her as "so popular around the White House" and saying that "everybody loves" her.

Trump appeared as a guest reader on Storytime with the Second Lady, a programme hosted by Usha Vance that promotes children's literacy through book readings by public figures and government officials.

The Independence Day episode was recorded in the Oval Office, where Trump and Vance read Presidents Play!, a children's title published by the White House Historical Association.

As the programme concluded, Trump thanked Vance for inviting him and praised her popularity within the White House.

Holding up the book, Trump remarked that the publication had been well produced before telling Vance that it was an honour to participate in the programme with her, adding that she was highly regarded by everyone at the White House.

Vance responded by thanking the President and said it was a privilege to welcome children watching the programme into the Oval Office on the occasion of Independence Day.

The episode began with Vance explaining that the show was being recorded at the White House instead of its usual setting. She introduced Trump as the day's special guest and invited him to explain the significance of the Oval Office to young viewers.

Trump described the Oval Office as one of the most important locations in the world and also praised Vice President JD Vance, saying the two had worked closely together during challenging periods and had made progress on several major issues.

The President also joked about ensuring that his 11 grandchildren watched the programme after Usha Vance expressed hope that they would tune in. Trump laughed that he could make it mandatory for them to watch, while acknowledging that it might not necessarily guarantee their attention.

Throughout the episode, Trump and Vance discussed the White House, former US presidents and their recreational interests while reading from the illustrated book.

Usha Vance made history as the first Indian-American Second Lady of the United States after JD Vance assumed office as Vice President in January 2025. A lawyer by profession, she has focused much of her public outreach on education and children's literacy.

Her Storytime with the Second Lady initiative has featured senior administration officials and other notable guests reading books to young audiences as part of an effort to encourage reading and learning among children.