Doug Emhoff, the Second Gentleman of the United States and husband of Vice President Kamala Harris, drops by with insights on gender equity and combating antisemitism. He spills the beans on why Kamala is a total 'badass' and shares funny stories about their lives together. The discussion takes a lighter turn as Emhoff talks about the joys of fantasy football, his notable hug with Governor Tim Walz, and the significance of community in politics. Don't miss his reflections on modern masculinity and the powerful role of public figures in shaping perceptions.
Doug Emhoff highlights the rapid life changes experienced after Kamala Harris became the likely Democratic nominee, shaping his role in politics.
He discusses the importance of redefining masculinity in the political sphere and emphasizes engaging men in conversations around gender equity.
Emhoff reflects on the emotional weight of addressing the plight of Israeli hostages, illustrating his commitment to raising awareness of human suffering.
Deep dives
The Unforeseen Shift in Life
Doug Emhoff shares the dramatic shift in his life after his wife became the likely Democratic nominee for president. Just 61 days before the pivotal election, he experiences a whirlwind of events that push him from a routine life, like attending a SoulCycle class in Los Angeles, to the rapidly evolving political landscape. The moment he receives the life-altering news while at the gym epitomizes the sudden and intense changes both he and Kamala Harris face. Emhoff describes the rush to support his wife amidst the chaos, depicting a sense of disbelief and the overwhelming nature of the responsibilities that come with a national campaign.
Navigating a New Role
As the first gentleman, Doug Emhoff reflects on how he approaches his unique position while supporting his wife in her vice-presidential role. He emphasizes the challenges of balancing traditional expectations of a spouse with his own career ambitions, noting his commitment to gender equity and advocacy. Emhoff discusses his efforts to redefine masculinity in politics, illustrating how he communicates the importance of shared responsibilities and support. By focusing on issues like pay equity and anti-Semitism, he highlights the need for men to engage more deeply in discussions around gender and equality.
The Power and Intent of His Speech
In sharing his thoughts about public speaking, Doug Emhoff reveals the significance of the speech he delivered at the Democratic National Convention. He aimed to portray Kamala Harris authentically, shedding light on her character while also introducing himself to a wider audience. Emhoff crafted his address to showcase both her professional achievements and her personal attributes, emphasizing her role as a devoted public servant. The challenge of speaking in front of a major audience, including the Obamas, added pressure, but he remained committed to delivering a message that encapsulated his wife's essence as a leader.
Vigil for Israeli Hostages
Doug Emhoff participated in a vigil highlighting the plight of Israeli hostages and the impact of their ongoing captivity. He reflects on the emotional weight of the event, emphasizing the importance of supporting the families affected by the hostages' trauma. By addressing the challenges posed by Hamas and the political landscape surrounding the situation, Emhoff contemplates the nuances of public perception in the U.S. versus Israel. His insights reveal a commitment to raising awareness about these issues while recognizing the depth of human suffering involved in the ongoing conflict.
A New Perspective on Family and Politics
Emhoff discusses how his role in politics intertwines with family dynamics, particularly his desire to remain connected to his children during a demanding campaign. As he balances his personal life with political responsibilities, he values moments of normalcy, such as participating in a fantasy football league with longtime friends. He illustrates how family remains a priority, even while navigating the complexities of national campaigns. By integrating personal and political spheres, he seeks to maintain a sense of balance, aiming to exemplify the supportive husband and father while still fulfilling his public role.
Doug Emhoff stops by the Crooked studio! The Second Gentleman talks with Jon, Lovett, and Tommy about why Kamala Harris is such "a badass," masculinity and winning over young men, and his role fighting the rise of antisemitism. Plus: the hug with Tim Walz that his friends are still giving him shit about, Kamala's kitchen skills, and why he still makes time for fantasy football.
For a closed-captioned version of this episode, click here. For a transcript of this episode, please email transcripts@crooked.com and include the name of the podcast.
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