Doug Emhoff calls Harris a “joyful warrior” and reveals personal side in DNC speech.

Introducing himself to delegates and the nation at the Democratic National Convention, Doug Emhoff, the nation’s first second gentleman, praised his wife, Vice President Kamala Harris, highlighting her dedication to their family and drawing parallels to how she would lead the nation if elected president.

“Wherever she’s needed, however she’s needed, Kamala rises to the occasion. And she did it for me and my family,” Emhoff told the crowd. “And now that the country needs her, she’s showing you what we already know: she’s ready to lead.”

Emhoff took a trip down memory lane, discussing his upbringing in New Jersey and California, his career as an entertainment lawyer, and the pivotal moment of meeting Harris in 2013. He shared a charming anecdote about nervously leaving a voicemail for Harris early in their courtship, a message she still plays for him every anniversary.

The couple is set to celebrate their 10th wedding anniversary on the evening Harris will deliver the keynote address at the convention to accept the Democratic presidential nomination.

“As I got to know her better and just fell in love fast, I learned what drives Kamala. And it’s what you’ve seen over these past four years and especially these past four weeks,” Emhoff said. “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’re treated unfairly.”

Emhoff commended Harris for her steadfast stance against antisemitism and all other forms of hate, emphasizing her strength lies in her empathy, describing her as a “joyful warrior.”

“She will lead with joy and toughness, with that laugh and that look, with compassion and conviction,” he said. “She’ll lead from the belief that wherever we come from, whatever we look like, we’re strongest when we fight for what we believe in, not just against what we fear.”

In 2020, with Harris making history as the first female vice president, Emhoff also made history as the first second gentleman and the first Jewish spouse of a vice president or president. Emhoff has been vocal about his Jewish identity and has prioritized combating antisemitism as a central aspect of his advocacy.

“She’s the one who encouraged me as second gentleman to take up that fight, which is so personal to me,” Emhoff shared.

Reflecting on the significance of his meeting Harris at a crucial juncture in his life, Emhoff expressed confidence in her ability to lead the nation at this critical moment in history.

So, as the nation witnesses this dynamic duo navigate the political landscape, Emhoff and Harris stand firm in their commitment to unity, justice, and progress, ready to embrace the challenges ahead with resilience and compassion.