Douglas Emhoff is a prominent American attorney and public figure. He is most famously known as the spouse of Kamala Harris, the 49th Vice President of the United States. Emhoff became the first-ever Second Gentleman of the U.S. when Harris was sworn into office in 2021. Here’s all you need to know about him.
Quick Facts About Douglas Emhoff
| Full Name | Douglas Craig Emhoff |
| Birthdate | October 13, 1964 |
| Occupation | Lawyer, specializing in entertainment law and intellectual property |
| Husband/Wife | Kamala Harris (m. 2014), Kerstin Emhoff (m. 1992–2008) |
| Education | Bachelor’s in Communication (California State University, Northridge) |
| Juris Doctor (University of Southern California Gould School of Law) | |
| Age | 60 years and 6 months old |
| Parents | Father: Michael Emhoff |
| Mother: Barbara Emhoff | |
| Siblings | Andy Emhoff, Jamie Emhoff |
| Children | Cole Emhoff (son), Ella Emhoff (daughter) |
| Net Worth | Estimated around $5 million (as of 2025) |
Early Life and Education
Douglas Emhoff was born on October 13, 1964, in Brooklyn, New York. He was raised in the United States and later relocated to California. Emhoff had always been interested in law and communication. He acquired a Bachelor’s Degree in Communication from California State University, Northridge. Then he went to USC Gould School of Law and acquired his Juris Doctor (JD), making him a lawyer.
Family Background
Douglas Emhoff is a practicing Jew and the first Jewish spouse of a U.S. Vice President. He has two children from his first marriage to Kerstin Emhoff, a film producer. They were married for 16 years and have two children, Cole Emhoff and Ella Emhoff. Emhoff and Kerstin remain close friends even after their divorce. Kamala Harris also has a cordial relationship with Kerstin.
Douglas married Kamala Harris in 2014. The two were introduced on a blind date in 2013 by a friend. They wed on August 22, 2014, in Santa Barbara, California. Their wedding was a fusion of Indian and Jewish ceremonies, reflecting their cultural blend of family. Kamala’s stepchildren, Ella and Cole, have dubbed her “Momala.”
Career and Achievements
Emhoff’s professional life as a lawyer is extremely prosperous. He is an entertainment lawyer and intellectual property lawyer. He has represented large clients, such as well-known athletes and animation companies. For years, Emhoff served as a managing director at Venable LLP. He also served as a partner at DLA Piper, one of the largest law firms in the world.
Emhoff didn’t stop there. He was also a distinguished visiting professor at the Georgetown University Law Center. He taught law and imparted his experience to students.
After serving as Second Gentleman for 2025, Emhoff is going back to his legal profession at the law firm of Willkie Farr & Gallagher.
Role as Second Gentleman
In 2021 when Kamala Harris was elected Vice President, Emhoff became the first-ever Second Gentleman of the United States. It was a historic milestone moment in US politics. Emhoff serves as the backing and support of his wife in her office and official responsibilities.
He has contributed a great deal towards shattering gender stereotypes by entering a position that was traditionally occupied by women. Emhoff has also contributed to combating antisemitism as well as gender equality. He has assisted Kamala in her political races, including her 2024 presidential campaign. He has also served the U.S. at numerous global events and meetings.
Personal Life and Interests
Douglas Emhoff is a family man who loves spending time with his loved ones. During his leisure time, he enjoys playing golf and fantasy football. He is also keen on giving back to society. Emhoff is involved in various causes, particularly education, civil rights, and social justice. He has done his best to make the world a better place through his philanthropic work.
READ ALSO: Kamala Harris Net worth, Age, Husband, Family, Facts & More
Looking Forward
Douglas Emhoff’s position as Second Gentleman has been unprecedented. His support for Kamala Harris has also been crucial to her political career. His lobbying for different causes has also seen him become a key player in American politics. If Kamala Harris becomes the president in 2024, Emhoff will be the first-ever First Gentleman of the United States.
