Not a ‘First Lady’: What should Douglas Emhoff be called if Kamala Harris wins the election?
Vice President Kamala Harris could make history as the first female president of the country, and if this comes to pass, what should her husband be called?
Kamala Harris made history in 2020 when she became the first female vice president of the country. This groundbreaking moment brought along with it another one for the books- her husband Douglas Emhoff became the first Second Gentleman of the United States.
If Harris wins in November 2024, this would notch another historic milestone- that of becoming the first female president of the United States. This in turn would trigger yet another first- the first time the president’s spouse would not be a woman. What would be her husband’s title then?
Not a ‘First Lady’: What should Douglas Emhoff be called if Kamala Harris wins the election?
Judging from Emhoff’s current title- Second Gentleman of the U.S.- he would likely be called the First Gentleman of the United States if Harris becomes president.
“FGOTUS” doesn’t quite have the same ring to it as “FLOTUS”, but this is probably how he would be addressed if he became the presidential spouse.
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What is the role of a First Spouse?
The United States has only had First Ladies thus far, and their role has evolved over the years, shaped both by the times and their individual personalities.
This position is not addressed in the Constitution, and as such First Ladies in the past have had to carve out their own role with no official or legal guidance (and no salary).
However, history and tradition have shown that the presidential spouse is usually responsible for performing certain roles, including the following:
Hostess of the White House
The First Lady traditionally acts as hostess for official events at the White House. This includes organizing state dinners and welcoming foreign leaders.
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Advocate for social causes
First Ladies in the past have chosen to champion pressing national causes or issues close to their heart. For example, Michelle Obama fought against childhood obesity, while Laura Bush focused on education and literacy.
Global diplomat
The First Lady at times takes on a diplomatic role by accompanying the president on overseas trips or even traveling alone to represent the United States in international events.