A video of Bruce Fischer, husband of Republican Senator Deb Fischer, refusing to shake Vice President Kamala Harris' hand went viral on Monday. The moment happened during a Senate ceremony on Friday.
Political commentator Brian Tyler Cohen shared the clip on X (formerly Twitter). He described the gesture as "the level of class you can expect from MAGA." The video quickly sparked online reactions.
Bruce Fischer attended the event in Washington, D.C., marking the start of the 119th Congress. The refusal appeared to surprise Harris as she oversaw the ceremony.
The video showed Senator Fischer completing her oath with one hand raised and the other on a Bible held by her husband. Afterward, Harris congratulated her and extended a handshake to Bruce.
Bruce declined, saying only, "Thank you." Harris raised her eyebrows and grimaced before the group posed for a photo. In the photo, Bruce Fischer did not smile.
Cohen’s post sparked discussions online, with some criticizing Bruce's manners. Others saw it as a reflection of GOP attitudes toward Harris.
As vice president, Harris oversees the swearing-in of all Senators. On Friday, she engaged with lawmakers from both parties, even joking with Independent Senator Bernie Sanders about following directions.
"Stand right here," she teased. "Although that is not your nature, to just stand where you're told to stand, but give it a try." Sanders responded with a quiet laugh.