Kamala Harris, born on October 20, 1964, made history in the 2020 presidential election as the first woman and the first person of color to become vice president of the United States. Now, following President Biden’s decision to drop out of the 2024 presidential race and endorse her, Harris, at the age of 59, is poised to make history again as the first Black and Asian American woman to lead a major party ticket. If she wins, she’ll also become the first Black and Asian American woman president of the United States. Harris, who is married to Doug Emhoff, has a blended family with two stepchildren, Cole and Ella. Her net worth is estimated to be around $5 million.
Historic Endorsement
On July 21, President Biden announced his decision to drop out of the 2024 presidential race, endorsing Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee. This endorsement sets the stage for Harris to potentially break new ground as the first Black and Asian American woman to lead a major party ticket. In response, Harris expressed her gratitude in a statement, saying, “I am honored to have the President’s endorsement and my intention is to earn and win this nomination.”
Personal Life
Doug Emhoff, Harris’s husband, also made history in 2020 as the nation’s first second gentleman and the first Jewish spouse of a president or vice president. Emhoff, who was born in Brooklyn, New York, and raised in Matawan, New Jersey, moved to the Los Angeles area as a teen. He earned his undergraduate degree from California State University, Northridge, and a J.D. from the University of Southern California Gould School of Law.
A Memorable First Date
In 2013, Emhoff and Harris met on a blind date set up by a mutual friend, Chrisette Hudlin. Despite a “long and a little rambling” voicemail that Emhoff left Harris, the two connected and had an immediate chemistry. After their first date, Emhoff sent Harris an email with all his available dates for the next few months, stating, “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.”
A Unique Proposal
Emhoff proposed to Harris in 2014, during a moment of stress when she was searching for a pair of missing pants. He had planned to propose in Italy but couldn’t wait and popped the question in her apartment. They married on August 22, 2014, in a small ceremony officiated by Harris’s sister, Maya. Harris and Emhoff’s children from his previous marriage, Cole and Ella, decided to call her “Momala” instead of stepmom.
Political Career
Kamala Harris’s political career includes serving as California’s Attorney General before being elected as one of California’s senators in 2017. She has been a prominent advocate for various causes, including criminal justice reform and healthcare.
Vice Presidential Role
On January 20, 2021, Kamala Harris was sworn in as vice president, making Emhoff the second gentleman. He has since used his platform to advocate for causes such as access to legal aid, fighting anti-Semitism, and abortion rights.
Doug Emhoff’s Career
Doug Emhoff has had a distinguished career in entertainment law, working in the Los Angeles area for 30 years. In January 2020, he began teaching law courses at Georgetown University Law Center.
Family Background
Doug Emhoff’s family includes his parents, Mike and Barbara, and siblings, Jamie and Andy. Emhoff and Harris’s blended family is a testament to their commitment to each other and their shared values. Their story is not just one of political achievement but also of personal resilience and dedication.
Future Prospects
As Kamala Harris steps into the role of the Democratic nominee for the 2024 presidential race, she and Doug Emhoff continue to make history and inspire many with their journey. Their partnership, built on mutual respect and shared goals, stands as a powerful example of modern leadership and personal integrity.
Public Service Commitment
Throughout her career, Kamala Harris has been guided by the principle of fighting for the people. Her work as a prosecutor, Attorney General, Senator, and now Vice President reflects her dedication to justice, equality, and public service. She continues to break new ground and inspire future generations with her leadership and commitment to making a difference.
Inspirational Journey
Kamala Harris’s journey from a child in Oakland to the Vice Presidency is a testament to her resilience, dedication, and commitment to public service. Her historic role and achievements continue to shape American politics and inspire many across the nation. Harris’s legacy is one of breaking barriers and championing the rights and freedoms of all people, fulfilling her mother’s advice to always fight for justice and equality.