Former US First Lady Melania Trump expressed her support for her husband, former US President and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, following his speech at a campaign rally held at Madison Square Garden in New York. — AFP
Both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump have their families standing firmly behind them, each aiming to propel their loved one to the White House, thereby becoming the nation's 'first family.' Spouses and children have historically played pivotal roles in US presidential campaigns, often adding a personal touch that can attract voters. A deeper examination reveals the distinct life stories of Harris and Trump, and how their families are playing a part in this year's election battle.
Harris's modern family includes her husband, Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff, and his children from his first marriage, Cole and Ella. The Harris campaign views the 60-year-old Emhoff, an entertainment lawyer, as a secret weapon. In August, the campaign released a line of merchandise—ranging from T-shirts to coffee mugs—featuring an old photo of him that went viral on social media. During the Democratic National Convention in August, delegates affectionately waved 'Doug' signs as he recounted meeting then-California Attorney General Harris on a blind date in 2013.
Emhoff, who is Jewish, has taken on a significant role in President Joe Biden's administration in combating anti-Semitism, particularly following the October 7 attacks by Hamas on Israel. Harris married Emhoff in 2014, becoming a stepmother to Cole and Ella, who affectionately call her 'Momala.' Cole, now working for a production company co-founded by US actor Brad Pitt, candidly discussed how his family dynamics shifted after Harris became a senator in California and then vice president.
Donald Trump's extensive family—comprising five children and ten grandchildren from three marriages—is deeply intertwined with his political and business endeavors. The family's public profile has notably changed since his 2017-2021 presidency, with daughter Ivanka and wife Melania stepping back from the 2024 campaign. Instead, Trump's two eldest sons, Donald Jr and Eric, have taken on more prominent roles. Donald Jr, with his 12 million followers on X and through his 'Triggered' podcast, is a staunch advocate for his father's 'Make America Great Again' agenda. Eric, similarly loyal, often supports his father through media appearances and campaign events. Eric's wife, Lara, plays a key role as co-chair of the Republican National Committee, reportedly reshaping the party in Trump's image.
Other family members have contributed to softening Trump's public image. His granddaughter Kai, 17, shared at the Republican National Convention in July that the presidential candidate is 'just a normal grandpa, he gives us candy and soda when our parents aren't looking.' Meanwhile, Trump's second daughter Tiffany, 31, has not been involved in this campaign, unlike in 2016 and 2020. His youngest son, Barron, 18, has recently begun his studies at New York University.
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