Additional Coverage:
- Campaigning for wife Kamala Harris, Doug Emhoff embodies (and redefines) masculinity (newsbreak.com)
**PITTSBURGH, Pa. – Vice President Kamala Harris stepped off Air Force 2 into the wind, with her husband, second gentleman Doug Emhoff, close behind.**
**Waving and smiling at the crowd, Harris grabbed onto the railing as Emhoff offered his arm for support. Together, they descended the steps to the tarmac, embodying both their personal and political partnership.**
**Having stood by Harris through multiple high-profile campaigns, Emhoff is now intensely focused on aiding her presidential run. Whether providing a steadying arm or grabbing her favorite snack, Doritos, Emhoff remains a crucial partner.
During a pitstop at a gas station, Harris beamed as Emhoff handed her the chips, a treat she often enjoys on the campaign trail. **
**Emhoff’s time with Harris has been limited since she accepted the Democratic nomination for president. Their chats mainly revolve around his campaign experiences and voter feedback.
At an event in Norristown, he shared with Harris’ supporters that he’s working tirelessly for her campaign, often likening it to “crawling over glass.” While Harris prepares for a debate with former President Donald Trump in Pittsburgh, Emhoff has been crisscrossing the country to rally support.
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**Emhoff’s efforts include headlining fundraisers, rallies, and volunteer events while Harris focuses on her vice-presidential duties and campaign strategy. Emhoff embodies a new model of masculinity, balancing traditional interests with active support for his wife’s leadership.
“He’s showing that you can still enjoy typical activities and stand behind a powerful woman,” said Jamal Simmons, a former communications director for Harris. **
**Though Emhoff relays information from his campaign travels, insiders note he doesn’t act as an adviser to Harris. His goal is to showcase Harris’ ability to lead the country amidst media scrutiny and political attacks.**
**Supporters like Carol Vinatieri appreciate Emhoff’s dedication, viewing him as a role model for men supporting their spouses. Emhoff transitioned from a successful law career to teaching at Georgetown Law to support Harris’ vice-presidential role.
He has shown he can balance personal support with public duties, such as when he interacted with migrants outside the vice-presidential residence. **
**If Harris were to win the presidency, Emhoff would assume the role of first gentleman, taking on responsibilities traditionally held by first ladies. He plans to incorporate his Jewish heritage into the role, such as placing a mezuzah in the White House.**
**Emhoff’s rise also reflects evolving family dynamics, with more women becoming primary earners. He hopes his journey inspires men to see value beyond their careers, emphasizing pride in supporting their family.**
**Introduced by a friend in 2013, Harris and Emhoff quickly connected and married the following year. Emhoff has continually supported Harris’ political ambitions and plays a significant role in her current campaign.
His packed schedule includes fundraising events that have already generated significant contributions for Harris’ bid. **
**Acknowledging the challenges, Emhoff remains committed to supporting Harris, demonstrating his readiness to take on future responsibilities. His actions echo his belief in gender equality and advocacy for issues like abortion rights, which align with Harris’ platform.**
**Much like his wife, Emhoff has grown more comfortable in the campaign spotlight. At a Jewish Democratic Council of America event, he highlighted Harris’ long-standing fight against antisemitism, reinforcing her credentials to voters.**
**Emhoff’s storytelling and personal anecdotes draw a stark contrast to the current political rhetoric, often resonating with voters. His blended family, including supportive ex-wife and children, adds to the relatable image they present to the public.**
**As voters consider their options, Emhoff hopes they see in Harris the first female president, supported by a devoted partner.**
**Francesca Chambers is a White House correspondent for USA TODAY. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter, @fran_chambers.**