Second gentleman Doug Emhoff was in Los Angeles last Sunday, enjoying a coffee with friends after a spin class when President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the race. Emhoff, away from his phone, was handed the news by a friend's partner, prompting him to rush to his car where his phone was buzzing with urgent messages to call Kamala Harris.
After a chaotic sprint to his home, Emhoff set up a makeshift war room in his kitchen, equipped with his devices, to navigate the sudden turn of events. He described the experience as surreal and bizarre, having to handle the situation alone before connecting with Harris and her team.
Emhoff, who had been making calls to rally support for his wife, Vice President Kamala Harris, was finally reunited with her the next day at campaign headquarters in Wilmington, Delaware. He expressed pride in her and their fast-paced campaign activities, attending events, engaging with donors, and finding his role in the presidential bid.
The whirlwind week following Biden's announcement has seen Emhoff deeply involved in supporting Harris's campaign, reflecting on the unexpected twists and turns that have propelled him into a more prominent role in the political arena.