Doug Emhoff Says Wife Kamala Harris Forces Him To Listen To Embarrassing First Voicemail Every Anniversary During DNC Speech

Doug Emhoff, the husband of Democratic presidential nominee Kamala Harris, delivered a heartfelt and personal endorsement of his wife’s candidacy on Tuesday at the Democratic National Convention.

Speaking directly to Harris, Emhoff praised her poise and leadership during the tumultuous 2024 primary season, which saw Harris catapult to the nomination after the early withdrawal of the president.

“That’s who she is,” Emhoff said. “Whenever she’s needed, however she’s needed, Kamala rises to the occasion.”

Emhoff, a successful entertainment lawyer, recounted the early days of his relationship with Harris, drawing laughter from the virtual audience as he recalled accidentally calling her at 8:30 a.m. on their first date and “just starting rambling.” Harris, he said, kept the voicemail and makes him listen to it every anniversary.

Emhoff and Harris married in 2014, with Emhoff taking on the role of stepfather to Harris’ two children, Cole and Ella. Their blended family, Emhoff said, is ready to represent “all families in America” in the White House.

The second gentleman, as Emhoff has become known, has been a fixture on the campaign trail, accompanying Harris on trips across the country and defending her against attacks from the former president.

“That’s all he’s got?” Emhoff asked last month, mocking Trump’s attempts to undermine Harris’ competence and mock her laugh.

In his convention speech, Emhoff sought to reintroduce Harris to the American public, highlighting her personal attributes and her commitment to justice.

“She finds joy in pursuing justice. She stands up to bullies just like my parents taught me to. She likes to see people do well, but hates when they are treated unfairly,” Emhoff said. “Her empathy is her strength.”

Emhoff, who is Jewish, also noted that Harris has helped deepen his connection to his faith, an important consideration for many voters in the wake of rising antisemitism.

As he closed his remarks, Emhoff issued a direct appeal to voters, saying they must decide “who to trust with your family’s future.”

“I trusted Kamala with our family’s future. It was the best decision I ever made,” he said. “America, in this election, you have to do the same.”