A recent clip has been making waves on social media, showing a surprising moment during the swearing-in ceremony of Nebraska Republican Senator Deb Fischer’s third term. The video captures Bruce Fischer, Senator Fischer’s husband, opting not to shake hands with Vice President Kamala Harris, America’s first female, Black, and South Asian vice president.
On Friday, January 3rd, Vice President Kamala Harris had the honor of swearing in the new class of U.S. senators for the 119th Congress. This group included both Democrats and Republicans, marking a significant moment of bipartisan cooperation.
As part of the ceremony, Harris approached Senator Fischer to administer the oath of office for her third term. Following this, she extended her hand to congratulate Bruce Fischer, who was holding the Bible during the ceremony.
Instead of reciprocating the gesture, Bruce Fischer chose to decline the handshake. As Vice President Harris said, “Congratulations to you,” and reached out her hand, Bruce looked down and simply nodded, responding with a “Thank you.” He didn’t make any eye contact or physical contact, which left Harris momentarily surprised. She responded with a lighthearted, “You sure?” but the moment remained memorable for those who witnessed it.
In the wake of the viral video, Senator Deb Fischer released a statement celebrating her swearing-in. She expressed her gratitude and commitment to her constituents, saying, “I’m humbled by the faith and trust Nebraskans have placed in me as I take this oath for the third time. I will not break that trust, and I will not betray that faith. Together we will continue to stand tall for our shared values and take care of our people. We will protect this nation. We will build a stronger Nebraska. And we will secure that brighter future for our children and grandchildren.”
The clip quickly sparked a variety of reactions online. Many viewers criticized Bruce Fischer for his refusal to shake hands with Vice President Harris, highlighting the significance of her being the first woman, Black woman, and South Asian vice president in American history. Some pointed out the broader implications of the interaction, considering the progress represented by Harris’s position.
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Who is Debra Fischer?
Debra Lynelle Fischer (née Strobel), born on March 1, 1951, in Lincoln, Nebraska, is an American politician and former educator serving as the senior United States Senator from Nebraska since 2013. A member of the Republican Party, she is the third woman to represent Nebraska in the U.S. Senate and the first to be reelected.
Fischer grew up in Lincoln, Nebraska, and graduated from Lincoln Southeast High School. She attended the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, where she met her husband, Bruce Fischer, a cattle rancher from Valentine, Nebraska.
The couple married in 1972 and moved to the family ranch outside of Valentine, where they raised their three sons. Fischer returned to the University of Nebraska–Lincoln in 1987 to complete her Bachelor of Science degree in education.
Debra Fischer Husband
Deb Fischer and her husband, Bruce, have built a life deeply rooted in Nebraska’s ranching traditions. After meeting at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, they married in 1972 and moved to Bruce’s family ranch near Valentine, Nebraska. This ranch, known as Sunny Slope Ranch, has been their home for over four decades.
Together, they raised three sons on the ranch, instilling in them the values of hard work and community. Their sons have since returned to live and work on the family ranch, continuing the family’s ranching legacy.
In March 2014, they welcomed twin grandchildren, Margaret May and Bryan Carl, born to their son Adam and his wife Tisha. Notably, the twins were born on different days, with Margaret arriving just before midnight and Bryan shortly after.
Despite her demanding political career, Deb Fischer remains actively involved in the ranch’s operations. She often spends weekends working alongside her family, maintaining the ranching lifestyle that has been central to their lives.
The Fischer family’s commitment to their ranching heritage reflects their dedication to Nebraska’s agricultural community and the values that define their personal and professional lives.
Debra Fischer Political Career
Fischer’s political career began at the local level, serving on the Valentine Rural High School Board of Education from 1990 to 2004. She was then elected to the Nebraska Legislature, representing the 43rd District from 2005 to 2013.
In 2012, Fischer was elected to the U.S. Senate, becoming the first Nebraska woman elected to a full term and the first Nebraska state senator elected directly after service in the state legislature. She was reelected in 2018 and again in 2024, defeating independent candidate Dan Osborn.
Deb Fischer Net Worth
Deb Fischer has an estimated net worth ranging between $959,031 and $6,960,000, according to her most recent financial disclosure report.
Key Assets:
- Sunny Slope Ranch, Inc. Non-Public Stock: Valued between $1,000,001 and $5 million, this represents a significant portion of her wealth.
- Wells Fargo Bank Deposit: Reportedly valued between $50,001 and $100,000.
Liabilities:
Fischer has reported liabilities ranging from $250,001 to $500,000, primarily attributed to a mortgage incurred in 2020.
Despite the controversy surrounding the swearing-in ceremony, Vice President Harris continued her important duties. On Monday, she returned to Capitol Hill to oversee the official certification of the 2024 presidential election results. In this role, she affirmed her dedication to upholding democratic principles.
In a video message, Harris emphasized the fragility of democracy and the importance of standing up for cherished values. “As we have seen, our democracy can be fragile, and it is up to each one of us to stand up for our most cherished principles,” she stated. “And to make sure that in America, our government always remains of the people, by the people, and for the people.”
The events of the past week highlight the ongoing challenges and dynamics within American politics. While the moment between Bruce Fischer and Vice President Harris drew attention, it also underscored the importance of unity and respect in public service. As the new Congress convenes, the focus remains on collaboration and working together to address the nation’s needs.
As Senator Deb Fischer begins her third term, she and her husband Bruce will undoubtedly continue to play active roles in Nebraska’s political landscape. Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris remains a pivotal figure in national politics, advocating for policies that aim to benefit all Americans. The interactions and events from the Golden Globes to Capitol Hill remind us of the diverse perspectives that shape our government and the importance of mutual respect in fostering a united country.
In the end, while the handshake may have been missed, the overarching message from both Senator Fischer and Vice President Harris is one of dedication and commitment to their roles. As Americans look forward to the future, the hope is that such moments lead to greater understanding and cooperation across all levels of government.
