Controversy Surrounds Senator Deb Fischer's Husband After Apparent Handshake Snub of Vice President Kamala Harris
During Senator Deb Fischer's swearing-in ceremony on January 3, 2025, an incident involving her husband, Bruce Fischer, and Vice President Kamala Harris sparked significant online debate. As Harris extended her hand to congratulate Bruce Fischer, he appeared to decline the handshake, leading to widespread speculation about his intentions.
In the widely circulated video, Vice President Harris is seen congratulating Senator Fischer before turning to her husband with an extended hand, saying, "Congratulations to you." Bruce Fischer, holding a cane in his right hand, responded with a "Thank you" but did not reciprocate the handshake. Harris, seemingly taken aback, withdrew her hand and proceeded with the ceremony.
The incident quickly went viral, with many interpreting Bruce Fischer's actions as a deliberate snub. Critics accused him of disrespect and even racism, given Harris's position as the first female, Black, and South Asian Vice President. Political commentator Reecie Colbert remarked on social media, "There’s no clearer example than Republican Bruce Fischer disrespecting VP Kamala Harris during his wife’s swearing in. She was gracious in that moment."
However, others defended Bruce Fischer, noting that his right hand was occupied with a cane, which may have made it difficult for him to engage in a handshake. Mollie Hemingway of The Federalist commented, "The clipped video does not show that the hand the VP tried to shake was holding on to a cane."
As of now, neither Senator Fischer nor Vice President Harris has publicly commented on the incident. The debate continues online, reflecting broader societal discussions about race, respect, and political decorum.