Vice President Kamala Harris’ husband, Douglas Emhoff, has been a constant source of support and love for her throughout her political career. As the second gentleman of the United States, Emhoff has made history in more ways than one.
But who is the man behind the title? In this article, we’ll delve into Emhoff’s background, career, and personal life, including his marriage to Harris and their blended family.
Early Life and Education
Douglas Emhoff was born on October 13, 1964, in Brooklyn, New York, to Mike and Barbara Emhoff. He spent his childhood in Old Bridge and Matawan, New Jersey, with his parents, brother Andy, and sister Jamie. When he was a teenager, his family moved to southern California.
Emhoff graduated from the University of California, Northridge, and earned his Juris Doctor degree from the University of Southern California Gould School of Law.
Emhoff became an entertainment, sports, and media lawyer, opening his own firm in 2000. He later sold his firm to Venable, LLP, in 2006. When he and Harris moved to Washington, D.C., in 2016, Emhoff became a partner at the firm DLA Piper. His clients included the pharmaceutical company Merck, arms dealer Dolarian Capital, and Walmart.
Meeting Kamala Harris
Emhoff met Harris on a blind date in 2013, set up by PR consultant Chrisette Hudlin. The two started dating, and Emhoff quickly won Harris over with his sense of humor and patience. Harris has said that she loves Emhoff’s ability to make her laugh, even on the most stressful days.
Marriage and Blended Family
Emhoff and Harris got married in a small courthouse wedding in Santa Barbara, California, on August 22, 2014. Harris’ sister Maya officiated the ceremony, which was accompanied by a cellist.
Emhoff has two children, Cole and Ella, from his previous marriage to film producer Kerstin Emhoff. Harris has a close relationship with Cole, Ella, and Kerstin, who remain close friends.
Throughout Harris’ political career, Emhoff has been a constant source of support and encouragement. He has accompanied her to campaign events, debates, and even stood by her side when she was named Joe Biden’s running mate in the 2020 presidential election. Emhoff has said that his role is to support Harris, not to advise her on political matters.
Making History
As the first second gentleman, Emhoff has made history in more ways than one. He has been a vocal opponent of toxic masculinity and antisemitism, and has visited the Holocaust Museum at Auschwitz on Holocaust Remembrance Day.
Emhoff has also lit the White House menorah for Hanukkah and has made history as the highest-profile American official to visit Samoa.
FAQs
How did Douglas Emhoff and Kamala Harris meet?
Emhoff and Harris met on a blind date in 2013, set up by PR consultant Chrisette Hudlin.
What is Douglas Emhoff’s occupation?
Emhoff is a lawyer and has worked in the entertainment, sports, and media industry.
How many children does Douglas Emhoff have?
Emhoff has two children, Cole and Ella, from his previous marriage to film producer Kerstin Emhoff.
What is Douglas Emhoff’s relationship like with Kamala Harris?
Emhoff and Harris have a close and loving relationship, prioritizing their marriage by starting and ending their days togethe