Kamala Harris, now a prominent figure on the global stage, stepped into the spotlight as Vice President of the United States. As she continues to shape her role and potentially aim for higher office, public interest extends beyond her policies to her personal life, particularly her family. This article delves into the close-knit, modern family that stands behind Kamala Harris, offering a glimpse into the individuals who have shaped her journey.
Doug Emhoff: The Supportive Second Gentleman
Doug Emhoff, Kamala Harris’s husband, embraces her on stage at a rally in 2020, showcasing his unwavering support.
Kamala Harris’s marriage to Douglas Emhoff in 2014 marked the beginning of a significant partnership. Emhoff, a successful entertainment lawyer based in Los Angeles, met Harris in 2013 when she was serving as California’s Attorney General. Their connection was immediate and led to a marriage that has become a cornerstone of Harris’s public and private life.
When Kamala Harris made history in 2020, Doug Emhoff carved his own path as the first Second Gentleman of the United States. He also became the first Jewish spouse of a Vice President, breaking new ground in American political representation. Emhoff transitioned from his legal career to fully embrace his supportive role, becoming a vocal advocate for the Biden-Harris administration’s initiatives and a constant presence alongside his wife. His enthusiastic and genuine support for Kamala is frequently captured in Kamala Harris Family Photos from public events.
At the Democratic National Convention, Doug Emhoff’s heartfelt words underscored his deep admiration and support for his wife. “She’s always been there for our children,” Emhoff stated, highlighting the blended family’s strong bond, “and I know she’ll always be there for yours too.”
Cole and Ella Emhoff: “Momala’s” Biggest Fans
Ella Emhoff, Cole Emhoff, and Greenley Littlejohn are pictured at the Democratic National Convention, representing the younger generation of the Harris-Emhoff family.
Kamala Harris embraced the role of stepmother to Doug Emhoff’s children, Cole and Ella, from his previous marriage to Kerstin Emhoff. She affectionately took on the moniker “Momala,” a term of endearment coined by Cole and Ella themselves, which she proudly proclaims as her most cherished title. This affection is clearly reciprocated, with both Cole and Ella consistently expressing their support and admiration for their stepmother.
Ella Emhoff introduced Kamala at the 2020 Democratic convention, proclaiming her “the world’s greatest step-mother.” Her words, “You’re a rock, not just for our dad, but for three generations of our big, blended family,” resonated deeply, emphasizing the strong foundation of their modern family. Kamala Harris family photos often depict the warmth and genuine connection between Kamala and her stepchildren.
Cole Emhoff, following in his father’s footsteps to some extent, works in the entertainment industry. He has held positions at talent agencies and production companies, including Brad Pitt’s Plan B. In 2023, Cole celebrated his marriage to Greenley Littlejohn in a private ceremony.
Ella Emhoff has carved her own unique path in the fashion and art worlds. A graduate of Parsons School of Design, she signed with IMG Models in 2021 and has walked for prominent fashion houses like Balenciaga and Proenza Schouler. Beyond modeling, Ella is a creative artist and knitter, launching her own knitwear brand, Soft Hands, in 2021.
Kerstin Emhoff: A Supportive Co-Parent
This BBC graphic visually represents the relationships within Kamala Harris’s blended family.
The positive dynamic within the Emhoff-Harris blended family extends to Kerstin Emhoff, Doug’s ex-wife and mother to Cole and Ella. Kerstin has publicly and warmly spoken about Kamala Harris, dispelling any notions of typical stepmother-ex-wife friction. Her supportive stance became particularly evident when she defended Harris against derogatory comments.
Kerstin Emhoff, founder and CEO of the production company Prettybird, is not only supportive but also actively involved. She even contributed her creative expertise to Kamala Harris’s 2020 campaign. Her willingness to engage and support Harris highlights the unique and positive relationships within this modern family.
Maya Harris: Sister and Political Confidante
Maya Harris is captured waving at the Democratic National Convention after delivering a speech in support of her sister.
Kamala Harris shares a deep bond with her younger sister, Maya Harris. Raised primarily by their mother, Shyamala Gopalan, after their parents’ divorce, Kamala and Maya have maintained a close relationship throughout their lives. Like Kamala, Maya pursued a career in law, graduating from Stanford Law School.
Maya Harris’s career path includes work as a litigator, law professor, and executive director of the ACLU of Northern California. She transitioned into politics, becoming a senior policy advisor for Hillary Clinton’s 2016 presidential campaign. She further solidified her political role by serving as campaign chair for Kamala’s 2020 presidential bid and later as a surrogate for the Biden-Harris ticket. Kamala Harris family photos from political events often include Maya, highlighting her steadfast support.
Meena Harris: Niece and Entrepreneur
Meena Harris, alongside Helena Hudlin and Ella Emhoff, stands on stage at the Democratic National Convention, representing the younger generation’s involvement in politics.
Meena Harris, Maya’s daughter and Kamala’s niece, continues the family’s legacy of achievement. Also a law school graduate, Meena initially advised Kamala early in her political career while working at prominent Silicon Valley companies.
Meena Harris is also an entrepreneur. In 2017, she founded Phenomenal, a media and merchandising company focused on projects led by women and underrepresented groups. Her entrepreneurial spirit extends to children’s literature; she authored “Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea,” a children’s book celebrating her aunt and mother. Following Kamala’s nomination as Vice President, Meena’s company released “Vice President Aunty” merchandise, showcasing her entrepreneurial drive and family pride.
Tony West: Brother-in-Law and Advisor
Tony West, Maya Harris’s husband and Meena’s stepfather, is another accomplished member of the Harris family. Another Stanford Law graduate, Tony West has held high-level positions in both the public and private sectors. He served as Associate Attorney General under President Barack Obama and as General Counsel of PepsiCo.
Currently, Tony West is the Chief Legal Officer of Uber. His legal and political acumen made him a valuable advisor to Kamala Harris’s campaign. He took a leave of absence from Uber to fully dedicate himself to supporting his sister-in-law’s political endeavors, emphasizing the importance of family support within the Harris circle.
Shyamala Gopalan: The Inspiring Mother
From left to right: Greenley Littlejohn, Cole Emhoff, Ella Emhoff, Douglas Emhoff, Maya Harris, and Tony West are pictured watching Kamala Harris on stage, showing a united family front.
While Dr. Shyamala Gopalan, Kamala and Maya Harris’s mother, passed away in 2009, her influence remains a guiding force in their lives and careers. A scientist and breast cancer researcher who immigrated from India at age 19, Gopalan was a powerful role model.
Kamala Harris has frequently spoken of her mother’s profound impact, stating, “My mother was the first person to tell me that my thoughts and experiences mattered.” Gopalan instilled in her daughters a sense of purpose and the importance of breaking barriers, famously telling Kamala, “Kamala, you may be the first to do many things. Make sure you are not the last.” Shyamala Gopalan’s legacy of activism and achievement is deeply embedded in Kamala Harris’s journey and reflected in Kamala Harris family photos that celebrate her heritage.
