Former Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff had some choice words for Bruce Fischer—the husband of Nebraska Republican Senator Deb Fischer—for refusing to shake the hand of his wife, then-Vice President Kamala Harris, as Harris swore Fischer in earlier this month.
The exchange proceeded routinely, with Harris leading Senator Fischer in the oath of office. Senator Fischer recited the oath, and the two shook hands as Harris thanked her for her contributions. However, when Harris turned to greet Bruce Fischer, saying, "May I extend congratulations to you?" and extending her hand, he declined to shake it, only saying, "Thank you," before averting his gaze.
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Notably, Bruce Fischer was holding a Bible in one hand and a cane in the other, which may have been why he refrained from reciprocating the gesture. During the interaction, Harris lightheartedly encouraged Bruce Fischer to step closer, assuring him with a smile, "I won’t bite."
Harris visibly raised her eyebrows and grimaced briefly before the group turned forward for a photo. In the picture, Bruce Fischer remained expressionless, refraining from smiling.
You can see what happened in the video below.
At the ceremonial tea at the White House, held before the motorcades departed for the U.S. Capitol, Emhoff declined a handshake from Fischer, according to a person familiar with the interaction who spoke with CNN.
On Monday, Emhoff confronted Fischer, alleging that Fischer had insulted his wife of 10 years and stating:
“Why would you try to shake my hand when you wouldn’t shake my wife’s hand?”
Fischer later approached Emhoff to apologize. According to CNN, the two had a “cordial” conversation during which “tempers had cooled.” Their discussion eventually shifted to lighter topics, including golf and other shared interests.
Many were not surprised Emhoff called Fischer out, criticizing Fischer's behavior themselves.
Although Bruce Fischer's exchange with Harris went viral, Senator Fischer did not address the matter, only posting a message on social media about how "we will continue to stand tall for our shared values and take care of our people," "protect this nation," "build a stronger Nebraska," and "secure that brighter future for our children and grandchildren.”
