Vice-President Kamala Harris, a potential Democratic nominee for the 2024 election, has written about her role as a stepmom. Harris met her husband, Doug Emhoff, who has two children from his previous marriage, Cole and Ella. Harris, who also grew up in a divorced family, understood the challenges of introducing new partners to children. Harris and Emhoff took it slow and waited until they were committed before Harris met the kids for the first time.
Harris recalls the nerve-wracking day she first met Cole and Ella. They went to a seafood hut called the Reel Inn, a favorite spot of the kids. Harris brought a tin of cookies with a ribbon as a gift. To her relief, the kids welcomed her warmly. Over the years, they have created a strong bond and Harris considers them to be her own children.
Kerstin, the kids' mother, is also an important part of their lives. She and Harris get along well and support each other. As a modern family, they attend sports events together and cheer for the kids. Harris and the children have established their own routines and roles within the family, such as Sunday dinners where they all gather around the table.
When Harris became a United States Senator, she had to balance her time between California and Washington, D.C. This meant missing important events in her children's lives. She vividly remembers having to miss Ella's high school graduation because she had to testify before the Senate Intelligence Committee. However, she was comforted by the supportive words of her female colleagues, who reminded her that children understand the sacrifices parents make and love them unconditionally.
Harris concludes her reflection by expressing gratitude for her family. She acknowledges the love and joy that Cole and Ella bring to her life. As she continues her political journey, she emphasizes that family remains the cornerstone of her happiness and fulfillment.
