As Americans head to the polls to choose between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump, a new cultural force has emerged in the spotlight: Harris's 25-year-old stepdaughter, Ella Emhoff.
Emhoff, daughter of Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff and his first wife Kristin, has built her own fashion brand far beyond the political sphere. With half a million Instagram followers and a coveted IMG Models contract, she is often seen at elite fashion shows and red carpet events, even at a memorable Met Gala appearance.
Emhoff is a graduate of The Parsons School of Design graduate.
She affectionately calls VP Harris, her stepmother "Momala." Their relationship, which began over a seaside dinner in 2013, has grown into a close family bond, with Harris often expressing how Emhoff completes their blended family.
But Emhoff's rise hasn't been without controversy. Her social media activism has sparked debate, particularly around Middle East politics. Last November, she faced criticism for sharing a Gaza children's fundraising link while remaining silent about Hamas's October 7 attack victims. A similar controversy erupted in March 2024 when she briefly posted a link supporting UNRWA donations.
Despite her father's Jewish heritage, Emhoff wasn't raised in the faith - though she notably chose a Modern Orthodox Jewish designer for her inauguration outfit.
That appearance, combining a Miu Miu tartan coat with a Batsheva dress, launched her fashion career after The New York Times called her a style influencer.
Today, Emhoff is busy with her knitwear design business, while also making time for high-profile appearances alongside her boyfriend, GQ writer Sam Hine.
As election day arrives, her influence over young voters - particularly on issues like Middle East policy - could really help Momala's chances of becoming the next American president.
Israel hayom contributed to this article.
