Digest

Doug Emhoff, the Second Gentleman of the United States, shares his personal experiences and insights on his role as a supportive partner to Vice President Kamala Harris. He recounts the surreal experience of learning about his wife's presidential nomination while at SoulCycle and the whirlwind of events that followed, including his speech at the Democratic National Convention. Emhoff discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of being the first man to hold the role of First Gentleman, emphasizing his commitment to supporting his wife and using his platform to advocate for gender equity, pay equity, family leave, and childcare. He also shares his thoughts on the importance of engaging young men in the election and promoting a more supportive and equitable approach to gender roles. Emhoff discusses his journey into politics, highlighting his initial focus on his career and family and how his involvement grew after meeting Kamala Harris. He also shares his reflections on attending a vigil for Israeli hostages held in Gaza, acknowledging the complexities of the situation and the need for a peaceful resolution. Emhoff emphasizes the Biden administration's efforts to secure a deal and hold Hamas accountable. He also discusses his love for sports, particularly the LA Rams, Lakers, and Dodgers, and his long-standing fantasy football league with his law school buddies, highlighting its importance as a source of connection and normalcy amidst the demands of his political life. Emhoff concludes by sharing his hope that the country will come to know Kamala Harris as a "badass" and a dedicated public servant who truly cares about the people.

Outlines

00:00:40

The Second Gentleman's Journey

Doug Emhoff recounts his experiences supporting Vice President Kamala Harris, from learning about her nomination at SoulCycle to his speech at the Democratic National Convention.

00:10:50

Reflections on the Gaza Crisis

Emhoff shares his reflections on attending a vigil for Israeli hostages held in Gaza, highlighting the human element of the crisis and the need for a peaceful resolution. He discusses the Biden administration's efforts to secure a deal and hold Hamas accountable.

00:15:49

Redefining the Role of the First Gentleman

Emhoff discusses the unique challenges and opportunities of being the first man to hold the role of First Gentleman, emphasizing his commitment to supporting his wife and using his platform to advocate for gender equity, pay equity, family leave, and childcare.

00:22:08

Engaging Young Men in the Election

Emhoff discusses the importance of engaging young men in the election, particularly those who may be drawn to a different version of masculinity. He shares his personal experiences and insights on how to promote a more supportive and equitable approach to gender roles.

00:30:30

Doug Emhoff's Political Journey

Emhoff shares his journey into politics, highlighting his initial focus on his career and family and how his involvement grew after meeting Kamala Harris.

00:42:14

Finding Joy and Connection

Emhoff discusses his love for sports, particularly the LA Rams, Lakers, and Dodgers, and his long-standing fantasy football league with his law school buddies, highlighting its importance as a source of connection and normalcy amidst the demands of his political life.

Keywords

Q&A

• How did your life change after Kamala Harris's presidential nomination?

  It was a whirlwind of events, from addressing the Harris campaign to speaking at the Democratic National Convention. It's been nonstop, with little time to reflect.

• What are your thoughts on the US response to the Gaza crisis?

  I'm not going to address the politics of it, but I know the Biden administration is working tirelessly to secure a deal and hold Hamas accountable.

• How do you approach your role as Second Gentleman?

  I see it as an opportunity to advocate for gender equity, pay equity, family leave, and childcare. I also want to use my platform to combat anti-Semitism.

• How do you plan to engage young men in the election?

  I believe in showing by example and promoting a more supportive and equitable approach to gender roles. I've learned that you can't lecture, you just have to be yourself.

• What is one thing you hope the country learns about Kamala Harris?

  I want people to know that she's a badass and a dedicated public servant who truly cares about the people. She's not just a politician, she's a devout public servant.

Show Notes