America’s Prospective First Gentleman, Doug Emhoff Reflects On Life, Love, With Kamala Harris

Doug Emhoff reintroduced himself to America during the second night of the Democratic National Convention, as Vice President Kamala Harris makes her historic bid for the presidency. If Harris is elected, Emhoff would become the first-ever first gentleman in the White House.

In a personal and relatable speech that often brought laughter from the excited crowd in Chicago, Emhoff shared his background. He spoke about growing up as the son of two Brooklyn natives and enjoying what he described as a “typical suburban childhood.” He mentioned that his childhood friends are still his closest companions, saying, “The guys I grew up with are still my best friends. The group chat is active every day — and it’s probably blowing up right now.”

Emhoff recounted working at McDonald’s during high school when his family faced financial challenges, and he worked full-time to afford college part-time. “Thanks to partial scholarships, student loans, and a little help from my dad, I got myself through law school and got my first job as a lawyer — which is also where I met the guys in my fantasy football league,” he explained. He humorously added that his team name remains “Nirvana,” in honor of the band, despite the many changes in his life since the early ’90s.

He reflected on becoming a father to his son Cole and daughter Ella, going through a divorce, and then experiencing something unexpected – being set up on a blind date with Harris. Emhoff shared how Harris saved his first awkward voicemail to her, which he left at 8:30 a.m., and how she playfully makes him listen to it every anniversary, drawing more laughs and cheers from the audience.

Harris, meanwhile, shared a photo on X, watching her husband’s speech from her plane over Chicago.

Emhoff spoke fondly of Harris, highlighting her dedication to justice and leadership. “She stands up to bullies — just like my parents taught me to. She likes to see people do well — and hates when they’re treated unfairly. She believes this work requires a basic curiosity in how people are doing. Her empathy is her strength,” he said.

He also mentioned how Harris has embraced his Jewish heritage, attending synagogue with him and even making a “mean brisket for Passover.” Emhoff, who is the first Jewish spouse of any gender for a presidential or vice-presidential candidate, said Harris encouraged him to fight against antisemitism.

Emhoff praised Harris for always being there for their blended family, stating, “Kamala has always been there for our children, and I know she’ll always be there for yours too.” He described her as a “joyful warrior,” someone who brings her passion for helping the people she loves to her work for the country. “Her passion will benefit all of us when she’s our president,” he added.

Emhoff also noted that Thursday, when Harris accepts the party’s nomination for president, will mark their 10th wedding anniversary. He humorously mentioned that he is “about to hear the most embarrassing voicemail of my life once again.”

Reflecting on their relationship, Emhoff said, “Kamala was exactly the right person for me at an important moment in my life. And at this moment in our nation’s history, she is exactly the right president.”

Emhoff was among the key speakers on Tuesday night, sharing the stage with former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama.

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