As Vice President Kamala Harris steps into the spotlight during the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, her personal life is coming into sharper focus. With her ascension from Joe Biden’s deputy to a prominent presidential contender, the spotlight is now on her family—a “blended” unit that has played a significant role in her journey. Here’s a detailed look at the key figures who have been integral to Kamala Harris’s rise in politics.
Doug Emhoff: The Supportive Husband
Kamala Harris met her husband, Doug Emhoff, in 2013 while serving as California’s Attorney General. They were married in 2014, and since then, Emhoff, a Los Angeles entertainment lawyer, has been a steadfast supporter of Harris’s career. In 2020, when Harris became the first Black and South Asian woman to hold the vice presidency, Emhoff made history as the first “second gentleman” and the first Jewish spouse of a U.S. vice president.
Emhoff left his law firm in 2020 to focus on his new role full-time. He has become a prominent advocate for Democratic causes and a loyal surrogate for Harris. During the convention, he made a high-profile appearance, praising Harris and reaffirming his support. “She’s always been there for our children,” Emhoff said. “And I know she’ll always be there for yours too.”
Cole and Ella Emhoff: Stepchildren and Supporters
Harris’s marriage to Emhoff also made her a stepmother to Cole and Ella Emhoff, Doug’s children from his previous marriage to Kerstin Emhoff. Cole, 30, and Ella, 25, have shown strong support for Harris throughout her career. Ella has described Harris as “the world’s greatest step-mother,” highlighting her significant role in their lives.
Cole has followed in his father’s footsteps in the entertainment industry, working with talent agency WME and Brad Pitt’s production company, Plan B. Ella, a graduate of Parsons School of Design, is a model signed with IMG Models and has launched her own knitwear brand, Soft Hands. Both Cole and Ella have been visible supporters at Harris’s campaign events, wearing campaign merchandise and cheering for their family.
Kerstin Emhoff: The Ex-Wife with a Positive Stance
Kerstin Emhoff, the ex-wife of Doug Emhoff and the mother of Cole and Ella, has publicly praised Kamala Harris, emphasizing their positive co-parenting relationship. Recently, Kerstin defended Harris against disparaging remarks, stating, “For over 10 years, since Cole and Ella were teenagers, Kamala has been a co-parent with Doug and I. She is loving, nurturing, fiercely protective, and always present.” Her supportive stance highlights the harmonious dynamic within this blended family.
Maya Harris: The Supportive Sister
Kamala Harris’s younger sister, Maya Harris, has been a significant figure in her life and career. Raised alongside Kamala by their mother, Shyamala Gopalan, Maya has built her own distinguished career in law and politics. A Stanford Law School graduate, Maya served as a litigator, and later as executive director of the ACLU of Northern California. She has also been involved in politics as a senior policy advisor to Hillary Clinton and campaign chair for Kamala’s 2020 presidential run.
Maya has remained a strong advocate for her sister and has been a key surrogate in Harris’s political endeavors. Her involvement underscores the close bond between the two sisters, who have supported each other throughout their respective careers.
Meena Harris: The Niece with a Growing Career
Meena Harris, Maya’s daughter, has followed in the family’s footsteps by pursuing a career in law and business. She has been a close advisor to Kamala Harris and launched Phenomenal, a media and merchandising company focused on projects led by women and underrepresented groups. Meena has also authored a children’s book, “Kamala and Maya’s Big Idea,” and created merchandise celebrating her aunt’s role as vice president.
Her career and advocacy efforts align with the Harris family’s commitment to social justice and representation, further strengthening their collective impact.
Tony West: The Brother-in-Law and Key Adviser
Tony West, Maya Harris’s husband, is another influential member of the Harris family. A Stanford Law School graduate, West has held significant positions in both the private and public sectors, including serving as associate attorney general under President Obama and general counsel for PepsiCo. He is currently the chief legal officer at Uber, a role he will temporarily step down from to focus on supporting Kamala Harris’s campaign.
West’s decision to dedicate himself full-time to the campaign underscores the strong family support Harris enjoys. “I have always believed family comes first,” West said, highlighting his commitment to both his family and his sister-in-law’s political ambitions.
Shyamala Gopalan: The Inspirational Mother
The late Shyamala Gopalan, Kamala Harris’s mother, played a pivotal role in shaping both Kamala and Maya’s careers. A breast cancer researcher who moved to the U.S. from India at 19, Gopalan’s legacy of activism and dedication to her family remains influential. Although she passed away in 2009, her impact on her daughters’ lives and careers is evident.
Kamala Harris has often credited her mother with instilling in her the belief that her thoughts and experiences mattered. Gopalan’s influence continues to be a source of inspiration for Harris as she navigates her political career.
The Harris Family’s Role in Kamala’s Political Journey
As Kamala Harris seeks to establish herself as a leading candidate for the presidency, her family’s support and diverse backgrounds have become a significant aspect of her public persona. From her supportive husband and stepchildren to her accomplished sister and niece, the Harris family represents a blend of personal and professional achievements that contribute to Harris’s campaign narrative.
This dynamic and supportive family unit highlights the personal connections that underpin Harris’s political journey. As she steps into the role of presidential contender, the Harris family’s collective presence and influence will continue to play a crucial role in shaping her campaign and public image.
