Kamala Harris, Vice President of the United States, and her husband Doug Emhoff, have shared a unique journey that spans over a decade. As they now embark on a historic presidential campaign following President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek re-election, their partnership has become a focal point of public interest. Harris and Emhoff, who married in 2014, celebrated their 10th anniversary this year while on the campaign trail. Their story is one of love, partnership, and shared ambition, marked by numerous milestones. Here’s a timeline of their relationship, from their first date to the high-stakes world of national politics.
2013: A Blind Date That Changed Everything
Harris and Emhoff's journey began in 2013 when a mutual friend, Chrisette Hudlin, arranged a blind date. As detailed in Harris’s 2019 memoir The Truths We Hold, Hudlin encouraged Harris to meet Emhoff, describing him as a "cute" man from Los Angeles. Despite her friend's advice not to Google him, Harris admitted she couldn't resist doing so. A few days later, Emhoff sent her a text while at a basketball game, and they soon connected on a phone call that went so well they planned their first date in Los Angeles. Harris later recalled feeling immediately drawn to Emhoff’s authenticity and self-assured nature.
After their first date, Emhoff wasted no time expressing his feelings. He emailed Harris the next day with his availability for the coming months, saying, “I’m too old to play games or hide the ball. I really like you, and I want to see if we can make this work.”
2013: Meeting the Family
Emhoff, who was previously married and had two children, Cole and Ella, wanted to ensure a smooth introduction of Harris into their lives. Harris, who understood the complexities children face when parents begin dating new people, approached the situation carefully. About two months after their relationship began, she met Cole and Ella, who welcomed her warmly. Reflecting on the experience, Harris credited them with solidifying her love for Emhoff, describing the children as "brilliant, talented, and funny" in an essay for Elle magazine.
2014: Emhoff’s Proposal and Their Wedding
In 2014, while preparing for a romantic vacation to Italy, Emhoff surprised Harris by proposing to her in her apartment. Initially preoccupied with packing, Harris didn’t realize the significance of Emhoff’s words until he repeated, “I want to spend my life with you,” and got down on one knee. Harris tearfully accepted, and on August 22, 2014, they married in a small ceremony officiated by her sister, Maya. The couple, along with Cole and Ella, affectionately nicknamed Harris "Momala" instead of "stepmom."
2017: From California Senator to National Spotlight
As Harris’s political career advanced, so did Emhoff’s role as her unwavering support system. When Harris was elected as one of California’s senators, the couple began spending more time in Washington, D.C. Emhoff, a prominent entertainment lawyer, transitioned his career to include teaching law at Georgetown University. As Harris continued to break new ground, Emhoff stood beside her, fully embracing his role as a supportive partner.
2021: Making History Together as Vice President and Second Gentleman
In January 2021, Kamala Harris was sworn in as the first female, Black, and South Asian Vice President of the United States, marking an iconic moment in American history. Emhoff became the country’s first-ever Second Gentleman and the first Jewish spouse of a president or vice president. Emhoff took on his new role with passion, advocating for causes like access to legal aid, combating antisemitism, and supporting reproductive rights. His dedication to these causes has made him an influential figure in his own right.
2024: Campaigning for the Presidency
With Harris now the Democratic nominee for president, Emhoff has joined her on the campaign trail, supporting her bid to make history once again. The couple has made numerous public appearances, including a memorable event in Philadelphia where Harris announced her choice of Tim Walz as her running mate. Emhoff has spoken candidly about their relationship and shared his belief in Harris’s dedication to the country, often recounting their love story to audiences nationwide.
During the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, the pair celebrated their 10-year wedding anniversary. Harris acknowledged Emhoff’s role in her life during her speech, saying, “Thank you, Doug, for being an incredible partner to me, and an incredible father to Cole and Ella. Happy anniversary, Dougie. I love you so very much.” Emhoff, visibly emotional, responded with a blown kiss from the audience.
In a recent appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live, Emhoff reflected on how their lives had changed since Harris's historic nomination. He shared how, amidst the whirlwind of campaigning, the couple barely finds personal time together. However, he remained resolute about their mission, vowing, “We’re going to bring this home and win.”
A Love Story for the History Books
Kamala Harris and Doug Emhoff’s relationship is more than a love story; it’s a testament to the power of partnership in the face of unprecedented challenges. From navigating blended family dynamics to redefining traditional roles, they have continually supported each other in personal and public spheres. As Harris vies to become the first Black and Asian American woman president, Emhoff is poised to make history as the nation’s first First Gentleman — a role he embraces with pride and dedication.