Former Vice President Kamala Harris’ husband, Doug Emhoff, recently landed a private sector job just days after leaving Washington, D.C.
Following his wife’s unsuccessful Democratic presidential campaign against President Donald Trump, the former second gentleman has joined the prestigious law firm Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP as a partner.
The New York-based firm, employing approximately 1,200 lawyers globally, announced Emhoff’s appointment on Monday, a week after Trump was sworn in as the 47th president.
Kamala Harris (L) and Doug Emhoff (Photo by ROBYN BECK/AFP via Getty Images)
Willkie Farr & Gallagher highlighted Emhoff’s extensive legal experience, spanning over three decades as a litigator, trial lawyer, and trusted counsel to clients and global business leaders. His extensive experience representing the United States internationally aligns seamlessly with the firm’s broad corporate and litigation platforms.
Emhoff’s practice will focus on advising corporations, boards of directors, and individuals on their most critical business challenges, sensitive investigations, and complex litigation, including matters with significant reputational implications and international scope. He will also address emerging legal issues across various industries and sectors.
In a statement, Willkie Farr & Gallagher Chairman Thomas Cerabino expressed his excitement about adding Doug to the partnership during this period of transformative firm growth. Emhoff, in turn, expressed his delight in joining Willkie, eager to collaborate with esteemed and innovative legal counselors. He couldn’t be more thrilled to be part of this talented and collaborative team.
Emhoff, the former second gentleman, will split his time between Los Angeles and New York. Willkie Farr & Gallagher, the law firm he’s joining, highlighted his over 30 years of legal experience, having served as a trusted advisor to prominent companies and leaders in business and technology hubs worldwide. He’s managed high-profile disputes and solved complex problems across various industries, including entertainment, media, sports, technology, and business.
Beyond his legal expertise, Emhoff’s role as second gentleman was also noteworthy. He traveled globally, representing the United States at significant events like the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris and the Women’s World Cup in New Zealand. Additionally, he spearheaded the administration’s efforts to combat antisemitism.
Before taking on this new role, Emhoff took a leave of absence from DLA Piper, one of the country’s largest law firms, to support his wife’s Democratic bid for the White House against Trump. He actively participated in fundraising efforts, hosting events with prominent law firm donors and leveraging his connections in the entertainment industry in California.
