5 Surprising Facts About Kamala Harris's Marriage To Douglas Emhoff: The Untold Story Of The Second Gentleman And "Momala"
Yes, Vice President Kamala Harris is married. As of December 22, 2025, she remains happily married to Douglas Emhoff, a prominent American lawyer who holds the historic title of the United States' first-ever Second Gentleman. Their partnership is not just a political alliance but a modern love story that began with a blind date and blossomed into one of Washington D.C.'s most closely-watched marriages, characterized by a strong bond and a commitment to their blended family.
The relationship between Kamala Harris and Doug Emhoff stands out in the political landscape, offering a unique picture of a high-powered couple navigating the pressures of the Vice Presidency while maintaining a deeply private and supportive life. Their journey from a chance meeting to the national spotlight, complete with two stepchildren who affectionately call her "Momala," is a testament to finding love later in life and redefining the role of a political spouse. This article dives deep into the fresh, unique details of their marriage, family life, and the surprising facts that define their decade-long union.
Kamala Harris and Douglas Emhoff: A Comprehensive Biographical Profile
The marriage between Kamala Harris and Douglas Emhoff is a union of two accomplished professionals who found love in their late 40s. Their individual backgrounds and professional achievements highlight the power-couple dynamic that now defines the Second Family.
Kamala Devi Harris (Vice President)
- Born: October 20, 1964 (Age 61 as of late 2025)
- Place of Birth: Oakland, California
- Education: Howard University (B.A.), University of California, Hastings College of the Law (J.D.)
- Career Highlights: District Attorney of San Francisco (2004–2011), Attorney General of California (2011–2017), U.S. Senator for California (2017–2021), Vice President of the United States (2021–Present)
- Current Role: 49th Vice President of the United States
Douglas Craig Emhoff (Second Gentleman)
- Born: October 13, 1964 (Age 61 as of late 2025)
- Place of Birth: Brooklyn, New York
- Education: California State University, Northridge (B.A.), USC Gould School of Law (J.D.)
- Career Highlights: Entertainment Lawyer, Partner at DLA Piper (on leave), Distinguished Visiting Professor at Georgetown Law
- Current Role: First Second Gentleman of the United States. He has focused his platform on issues like legal aid, gender equity, and supporting military families.
- Previous Marriage: Married to Kerstin Emhoff (1992–2008), with whom he has two children.
The Blind Date That Changed American Political History
The love story of Kamala Harris and Doug Emhoff began in 2013, a fact that surprises many who assume their paths must have crossed earlier in their high-profile careers.
They were set up on a blind date by a mutual friend, Chrisette Hudlin, who was a PR consultant for Harris at the time.
Emhoff, then a successful Los Angeles entertainment lawyer, was immediately smitten. Their initial interaction involved a "rambling voicemail" from Emhoff, which Harris still has saved.
The connection was instantaneous and strong. After a whirlwind courtship, Emhoff proposed to Harris in March 2014. Their wedding took place just five months later, on August 22, 2014, in a small, private ceremony at the Santa Barbara Courthouse.
The wedding ceremony was officiated by Harris's sister, Maya Harris, and incorporated elements from both their backgrounds: a flower garland around Emhoff's neck (a nod to Harris's Indian heritage) and the breaking of a glass (a Jewish tradition).
Their quick engagement and marriage timeline underscores the depth of their connection and the certainty they felt about their future together, proving that even in the high-stakes world of politics, a true love match can be found unexpectedly. Their recent celebration of their 11th wedding anniversary highlights the enduring nature of their bond.
The Modern American Blended Family: "Momala" and the Emhoff Children
Perhaps the most endearing and unique aspect of Kamala Harris's marriage is the close-knit relationship she shares with her two stepchildren, Cole and Ella Emhoff.
Cole Emhoff, the older stepchild, works in the entertainment industry, while Ella Emhoff has gained significant attention as a model and designer.
The two children affectionately call her "Momala," a term that blends "Mom" with her first name and signifies the deep, loving relationship they share.
This "big blended family" also includes Doug's ex-wife, Kerstin Emhoff, with whom Harris maintains a famously supportive and friendly relationship. This modern family dynamic has been praised as a model for co-parenting and mutual respect.
Harris has often spoken about the joy of being a stepmother, stating that her stepchildren are a critical part of her life and that the entire family supports her political career wholeheartedly.
The Emhoff children have been visible and vocal supporters of their father and stepmother, frequently appearing at political events and using their platforms to advocate for the family and their causes. The public visibility of their blended family life has normalized modern family structures in the political arena.
The Historic Role of the Second Gentleman
Douglas Emhoff's marriage to Kamala Harris made history, as he became the first-ever Second Gentleman of the United States. This title and role are completely unprecedented in American politics.
Emhoff immediately embraced his role, stepping away from his high-profile law career to avoid any potential conflicts of interest. His decision to leave his partnership at DLA Piper was a clear demonstration of his commitment to his wife's public service.
As Second Gentleman, Emhoff has chosen to focus his initiatives on areas where he can make a significant impact without overshadowing the Vice President. His platform has centered on promoting legal aid, supporting military families, and advocating for gender equity and education.
He has also taken on a teaching role, serving as a Distinguished Visiting Professor at Georgetown Law, where he focuses on entertainment law and media litigation. This allows him to maintain a professional identity while fulfilling his duties as the Vice President's spouse.
His support for Harris is often described as unwavering. He is frequently seen at her side, a visible sign of their partnership, and has been dubbed her "best friend" and "rock" throughout her demanding political journey. Their relationship model is one of mutual respect, shared ambition, and deep personal affection.
The presence of a male spouse in this traditional role has also shifted public perception, highlighting a new era of gender roles in the highest levels of government. Emhoff's comfortable and effective performance in the role has set a new standard for future vice-presidential spouses.
Untold Details and The Strength of Their Partnership
The marriage of Kamala Harris and Doug Emhoff is defined by several key elements that showcase its strength and unique nature.
A Focus on Privacy: Despite their public roles, the couple prioritizes their private life. They are known for their mutual love of cooking and spending quiet time together, a necessary retreat from the intense political spotlight.
The Past Affair Acknowledged: In a sign of their strong, mature relationship, Harris has publicly addressed her husband's past. Doug Emhoff's previous marriage to Kerstin Emhoff ended partly due to an affair, a detail that was brought up in a recent interview. Harris's candidness about the past and her focus on the present underscores the trust and maturity in their current marriage.
Mutual Professional Respect: Both Harris and Emhoff are highly accomplished legal minds. Their shared professional background provides a foundation of intellectual respect and understanding of the pressures of high-level careers, which is a key ingredient in their successful partnership.
The "Best Friend" Dynamic: Harris has consistently referred to Emhoff as her "best friend" and soulmate. This description goes beyond the typical political spouse role, suggesting a profound and personal connection that is the bedrock of their long-term commitment. Their anniversary posts often reflect this deep affection.
In conclusion, the answer to "Is Kamala Harris married?" is a resounding yes, and the story of her marriage to Douglas Emhoff is one of the most compelling narratives in modern American politics. It is a story of a successful blind date, a loving blended family with "Momala" at the center, and a historic partnership that continues to redefine the roles of the Vice President and the Second Gentleman.
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