Ladies and gentlemen, let’s delve into the latest buzz surrounding Kamala Harris, her role as a stepmother, and some controversial remarks that have recently surfaced. The vice president’s husband, Doug Emhoff, has an ex-wife named Kerstin Emhoff, who recently defended Harris against criticisms about her lack of biological children.
Kerstin spoke to CNN, dismissing these criticisms as baseless. She emphasized that Harris has been an equal co-parent to their kids, Cole and Ella, for over a decade.
“She is loving, nurturing, fiercely protective and always present,” Kerstin shared, expressing her gratitude for their blended family and for having Harris in it.
These comments came in response to a resurfaced interview from 2021 where JD Vance, now the vice-presidential nominee, made some harsh remarks about Harris. Vance, speaking with Tucker Carlson, described Harris and other childless Democrats as “miserable” and implied they lacked a direct stake in the country’s future because they don’t have children.
Vance’s comments sparked a backlash, especially since Harris has been a stepmother to Doug Emhoff’s children since their marriage in 2014. Known affectionately as “Momala,” Harris has written about her close relationship with her stepchildren, describing them as her “endless source of love and pure joy.” In an essay for Elle Magazine, she explained how the term “Momala” came about as a preferred alternative to “stepmom.”
Harris has also praised her relationship with Kerstin Emhoff, noting that they are dear friends and sometimes joke about their “almost too functional” modern family.
Turning to Harris’s stepchildren, Ella Emhoff has made a name for herself in the fashion and art world. Since Harris’s rise to the vice presidency, Ella signed with IMG Models, walked major runway shows, and appeared in high-profile fashion campaigns. However, her pro-Palestinian stance has recently drawn attention amid ongoing tensions in Israel.
On the other hand, Cole Emhoff, who works in entertainment, has maintained a lower profile. Born in 1994, Cole was a high school senior when Harris and Doug Emhoff started dating.
He later attended Colorado College and has worked on several movies, including the award-winning “Minari.” Harris officiated Cole’s wedding in October 2023, further showcasing their close family bond.
