Kamala Harris, the Vice President of the United States and a prominent figure in American politics, has a unique family dynamic that often goes beyond her political career. As a stepmother to two remarkable young adults, Ella and Cole Emhoff, Harris has embraced her role in their lives with open arms and genuine affection. This article delves into the lives of Kamala Harris’ stepchildren, their relationship with Harris, and their accomplishments.
Kamala Harris as a Stepmother
Kamala Harris married Doug Emhoff, an attorney, in 2014. With this union, she became the stepmother to Doug’s two children from his previous marriage, Cole and Ella Emhoff. From the very beginning, Harris prioritized building a strong, loving relationship with her stepchildren, who affectionately refer to her as “Momala.” This nickname, a blend of “Mom” and “Kamala,” reflects the close bond they share.
Harris has always emphasized the importance of family, and her relationship with Ella and Cole is no exception. In an essay for ELLE magazine in 2019, Harris expressed her admiration for her stepchildren, describing them as “brilliant, talented, funny kids who have grown to be remarkable adults.” Her commitment to being a supportive and caring stepmother is evident in her words and actions.
Cole Emhoff: A Creative Mind
Early Life and Education
Cole Emhoff was born on September 15, 1994, to Doug and Kerstin Emhoff. Named after the legendary jazz musician John Coltrane, Cole grew up in California and was nearly 20 years old when his father married Kamala Harris. Despite the challenges that come with blending families, Cole and Harris developed a strong bond from the start.
Cole attended Colorado College, where he graduated in 2017 with a degree in psychology. His academic background and personal interests have shaped his career path, leading him to work in the entertainment industry.
Career and Personal Life
Currently, Cole works for Plan B Entertainment, a production company co-founded by actor Brad Pitt. The company is known for producing critically acclaimed films such as Minari and The Departed. Cole’s role at Plan B reflects his passion for storytelling and creative expression.
In his personal life, Cole married his longtime girlfriend, Greenley Littlejohn, on October 14, 2023. Kamala Harris officiated the ceremony, highlighting the strong family ties that bind them together. Harris later shared her joy over the event, stating that the wedding was “a coming together of families,” and expressing her hope for Cole and Greenley to have a loving and supportive marriage.
Ella Emhoff: Fashion Icon and Artist
Early Life and Education
Ella Emhoff, born on May 29, 1999, is Doug and Kerstin Emhoff’s younger child. Like her brother, Ella was named after a jazz legend—Ella Fitzgerald. When Doug introduced Harris to his children, Ella was a high school student. By the time Harris became the Vice President, Ella was attending The New School’s Parsons School of Design in New York City, where she honed her artistic talents.
Career in Fashion and Design
Ella’s interest in fashion and design quickly transformed into a successful career. She signed with IMG Models Worldwide in January 2021 and made a significant impact in the fashion world. Her unique style and creative vision have led to collaborations with major brands like Balenciaga. Ella even graced the Met Gala red carpet in May 2021, wearing a custom piece by Adidas by Stella McCartney.
Beyond modeling, Ella is a talented knitwear designer. She frequently showcases her creations on social media and hosts the Soft Hands Knitting Club in New York City, where she teaches others how to knit. In 2022, Ella was recognized as one of Harper’s Bazaar’s icons of the year for her influence in the fashion industry, a testament to her growing impact.
The Blended Family Dynamics
The Emhoff-Harris family represents a modern, blended family dynamic that emphasizes love, respect, and mutual support. Despite the public nature of Kamala Harris’ career, she and Doug have managed to create a nurturing environment for Ella and Cole. The family’s closeness is evident in their shared experiences and the way they support each other’s endeavors.
In a video for the 2024 Democratic National Convention, Cole spoke about his father’s relationship with Harris, describing their meeting as “the blind date that would dramatically change all of our lives forever.” This sentiment highlights the transformative power of their family bond and the positive influence Harris has had on Ella and Cole’s lives.
Conclusion
Kamala Harris’ relationship with her stepchildren, Ella and Cole Emhoff, is a heartwarming example of the power of love and family. As a stepmother, Harris has embraced her role with grace and dedication, fostering a supportive and nurturing environment for her stepchildren. Ella and Cole, in turn, have thrived in their respective careers, each making their mark in the world.
Their story is a testament to the strength of blended families and the importance of building meaningful relationships based on mutual respect and affection. As Kamala Harris continues her political journey, her commitment to her family remains a cornerstone of her life, demonstrating that personal and professional achievements can go hand in hand.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who are Kamala Harris’ stepchildren?
Kamala Harris’ stepchildren are Ella and Cole Emhoff, the children of her husband Doug Emhoff from his previous marriage.
2. What do Ella and Cole Emhoff do for a living?
Ella Emhoff is a fashion model and designer, known for her work with brands like Balenciaga and her knitwear creations. Cole Emhoff works in the entertainment industry with Plan B Entertainment, a production company.
3. How did Kamala Harris meet her stepchildren?
Kamala Harris met Ella and Cole Emhoff shortly after she began dating their father, Doug Emhoff, in 2014. They have since developed a close and loving relationship.
4. What is Ella Emhoff’s connection to the fashion industry?
Ella Emhoff is a model signed with IMG Models Worldwide and has collaborated with major fashion brands. She is also a knitwear designer and hosts knitting workshops in New York City.
5. How does Kamala Harris describe her relationship with Ella and Cole?
Kamala Harris describes her relationship with Ella and Cole as loving and supportive. She proudly embraces her role as their stepmother and is affectionately called “Momala” by them.