Douglas Craig Emhoff, the man who redefined the role of a political spouse as the United States' first-ever Second Gentleman, has stepped into a compelling new chapter of his life following the end of his wife Kamala Harris's term in January 2025. The former high-powered entertainment lawyer has traded the political stage for the academic world, a move that is both a return to his roots and a clear signal of his post-White House intentions. This article, updated in late 2025, dives deep into the current life, career, and personal revelations of the man affectionately known as "The Second Gentleman."
The transition marks a significant shift for Emhoff, who spent four years championing causes like gender equity and justice on a global platform. His new endeavors, including a distinguished faculty position at a major university, ensure he remains a prominent public figure, though on his own terms. From his lucrative legal past to a candid admission about a sensitive personal history, here are the most recent and intriguing facts about Kamala Harris's husband.
Douglas Emhoff: Complete Biographical Profile
Douglas Emhoff's journey is a fascinating blend of legal success, family life, and groundbreaking political partnership. His life story, which includes a successful career in entertainment law and a highly public second marriage, provides a rich tapestry of experience.
- Full Name: Douglas Craig Emhoff
- Born: October 13, 1964
- Age (as of late 2025): 61
- Place of Birth: Brooklyn, New York, U.S.
- Education: California State University, Northridge (B.A.); University of Southern California (USC) Gould School of Law (J.D.)
- Profession: Lawyer, Law Professor
- Notable Roles: Partner at DLA Piper (Former); Second Gentleman of the United States (2021–2025); Distinguished Visiting Professor at USC Gould School of Law (2025–Present)
- Spouses: Kerstin Emhoff (m. 1992; div. 2008); Kamala Harris (m. 2014)
- Children: Cole Emhoff and Ella Emhoff (from first marriage)
- Stepchildren: None (Kamala Harris has no biological children)
- Nickname from Stepchildren: "Dadala" (a portmanteau of Dad and Kamala)
- Estimated Net Worth (2024): Approximately $8 million
1. His Return to Academia: The Distinguished Visiting Professor Role
The most significant update on Douglas Emhoff's career is his highly anticipated return to his alma mater, the USC Gould School of Law, where he assumed the role of Distinguished Visiting Professor starting in July 2025.
Prior to his time in the White House, Emhoff was a highly successful lawyer specializing in entertainment and intellectual property law, bringing in an annual salary that often exceeded $1 million. He stepped away from his partnership at the global law firm DLA Piper to avoid conflicts of interest when Kamala Harris became Vice President.
The move to USC Gould School of Law is a natural fit, as Emhoff received his law degree from USC in 1990 and has remained actively involved with the school, mentoring students over the years. This new position follows his previous part-time teaching role at Georgetown University Law Center, cementing his post-political identity as a dedicated legal educator and mentor. His focus is expected to be on the intersection of law, media, and public policy, drawing directly from his unique experiences in both the courtroom and the political sphere.
2. The Candid Revelation: Addressing the Affair in a New Memoir
In a surprising and candid move, the couple addressed a sensitive chapter of Emhoff's past in Kamala Harris's memoir, 107 Days, released in September 2024. The book, which chronicled her 2024 political journey, included a section where Harris discussed Emhoff's affair during his first marriage to Kerstin Emhoff.
The revelation confirmed long-standing reports that Emhoff had been involved with a teacher at his children's school several years before he met Kamala Harris. Harris's decision to include this personal detail was seen as an effort to control the narrative and offer a transparent account of the challenges the couple has faced, even those predating their relationship. This level of openness about a past marital rift is highly unusual for a major political figure and serves to humanize the couple, addressing the public's curiosity head-on.
3. A Modern Family: The 'Momala' Dynamic
One of the most enduring and fascinating aspects of Emhoff's life is the blended family he built with Kamala Harris. The couple, who were set up on a blind date by a mutual friend in 2013, married in 2014 and celebrated their 11th wedding anniversary in 2025.
Emhoff has two children from his first marriage, Cole and Ella, who have become public figures in their own right. Ella Emhoff, a fashion model, has gained significant attention, and the entire family unit is known for its close bond. His children affectionately call Kamala Harris "Momala," a term that highlights the warmth and unconventional nature of their family structure.
This modern, blended family dynamic was a key part of his identity as Second Gentleman, where he often spoke about the importance of family and his pride in his wife's career. His supportive role broke traditional gender norms, earning him praise as a champion of gender equity.
4. The Post-White House Financial Picture: Net Worth and Assets
Despite stepping down from his multi-million dollar partnership at DLA Piper, Douglas Emhoff's financial standing remains robust. His estimated net worth in 2024 was approximately $8 million.
This wealth was primarily accumulated over decades as a successful entertainment lawyer in Los Angeles, representing high-profile clients in major commercial litigation cases. While his current salary as a Distinguished Visiting Professor at USC is significantly less than his former law firm income, the stability of his assets, combined with Kamala Harris's own substantial earnings from her political career and book deals, ensures the couple remains financially secure. His new teaching role allows him to continue a professional career that aligns with his passion for law and mentorship without the financial conflicts of interest inherent in his former high-stakes legal practice.
5. The Legacy of the First Second Gentleman
Emhoff's term from 2021 to 2025 was historic, as he was the first man, the first Jewish person, and the first spouse of a Vice President to hold the title of Second Gentleman. His tenure was defined by his focus on key initiatives, including:
- Legal Aid and Justice: Advocating for legal aid for underserved communities.
- Gender Equity: Promoting women's rights and opportunities both domestically and internationally.
- Combating Antisemitism: Leading efforts to address the rise of antisemitism and hate speech.
- Supporting Military Families: Working with the White House's Joining Forces initiative.
His approach was characterized by a low-key, supportive, and accessible demeanor, often traveling independently to meet with community leaders, attend vaccination clinics, and visit food banks. Though his time as Second Gentleman has concluded, the precedent he set for the role—as a full-time, active partner focused on meaningful policy work—will be his lasting legacy, influencing how future male spouses of high-ranking officials approach their public service.
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