In a notable deviation from traditional pleasantries at a swearing-in ceremony, Bruce Fischer, the spouse of Republican Senator Deb Fischer from Nebraska, conspicuously declined to shake hands with Vice President Kamala Harris. This event unfolded during the formal proceedings marking Sen. Fischer's commencement of her third term, an occasion typically characterized by bipartisan cordiality and respect. The incident was captured on video last Friday and gained widespread attention when Brian Tyler Cohen, a commentator known for his liberal stance, disseminated the footage across social media platforms early Monday. Subsequently, it became a focal point for discussion among various left-leaning commentators.
The sequence of events as depicted in the video shows Vice President Harris extending her congratulations and gratitude to Sen. Fischer immediately following the oath-taking. Upon attempting to extend the same courtesy to Mr. Fischer by offering a handshake and seeking permission to congratulate him, she is met with a verbal acknowledgment but no physical reciprocation of the gesture. Mr. Fischer's refusal seemed to take Ms. Harris by surprise, evident from her raised eyebrows and paused response; however, she chose not to address the snub verbally.
As the presiding officer over the Senate, Vice President Harris plays a central role in inaugurating new or re-elected senators—a duty that underscores the unity and collaborative spirit intended at such ceremonies. Despite this expectation of formality and mutual respect, Mr. Fischer's action breaks with convention, highlighting underlying political tensions.
By late Monday afternoon, there had been no official comment or explanation provided on any of Sen. Deb Fischer’s social media channels regarding her husband’s unconventional behavior during what is customarily a momentous and celebratory event for elected officials and their families alike.
Unburdened By A Handshake!
— Conservative Brief (@ConservBrief) January 6, 2025
The husband of Sen. Debra Fischer REFUSES to shake Vice President Kamala Harris' hand when his wife was being sworn in.
The look on Harris' face is PRICELESS! pic.twitter.com/nsGuWABF1h
The sequence of events as depicted in the video shows Vice President Harris extending her congratulations and gratitude to Sen. Fischer immediately following the oath-taking. Upon attempting to extend the same courtesy to Mr. Fischer by offering a handshake and seeking permission to congratulate him, she is met with a verbal acknowledgment but no physical reciprocation of the gesture. Mr. Fischer's refusal seemed to take Ms. Harris by surprise, evident from her raised eyebrows and paused response; however, she chose not to address the snub verbally.
As the presiding officer over the Senate, Vice President Harris plays a central role in inaugurating new or re-elected senators—a duty that underscores the unity and collaborative spirit intended at such ceremonies. Despite this expectation of formality and mutual respect, Mr. Fischer's action breaks with convention, highlighting underlying political tensions.
By late Monday afternoon, there had been no official comment or explanation provided on any of Sen. Deb Fischer’s social media channels regarding her husband’s unconventional behavior during what is customarily a momentous and celebratory event for elected officials and their families alike.
