Belinda Luscombe, an editor at large for TIME, has covered a variety of topics, specializing in interviews, profiles, and essays. In 2010, she received the Council on Contemporary Families Media Award for her articles focusing on the changing nature of marriage. She is also the author of “Marriageology: the Art and Science of Staying Together.”
As women’s economic and social influence grows, some men are responding with traditional masculinity. Terms like cuck, p-whipped, and simp have emerged to describe men who are perceived as overshadowed by their partners. This situation raised questions about masculinity when Doug Emhoff spoke about his wife, Kamala Harris, at the Democratic National Convention. He had to strike a balance between being supportive without appearing subservient.
Globally, fewer than half of the countries have had female heads of state, and even fewer have seen married women in those roles. Emhoff’s speech became a pivotal moment in showcasing how a man can discuss and support a strong woman aiming for one of the world’s most powerful positions, while avoiding negative stereotypes.
Emhoff, along with his speechwriters and son Cole, delivered an impressive performance. He portrayed independence from the start, sharing his own humble beginnings and acknowledging the experiences that shaped him. His self-assuredness shone through as he humorously recounted a nervous voicemail he had left for Harris and expressed gratitude toward his ex-wife, showing no bitterness.
Throughout his speech, Emhoff showcased traditional masculine traits, such as protectiveness and collaboration, evidenced by his familial support for Harris, as well as his interests like fantasy football and his admiration for iconic bands. He highlighted a willingness to adapt, discussing his career shift after Harris became vice president.
Interestingly, the traits Emhoff emphasized—strength, courage, and industriousness—are often valued by conservatives as well. However, while figures like Trump’s running mate, J.D. Vance, project similar qualities, Emhoff navigates his role while allowing Harris to take the lead. His declarations of support, like calling Harris’s empathy her “superpower,” resonated with many, prompting positive reactions from both women and men on social media.
Despite some backlash labeling him as weak or criticizing his past relationships, Emhoff’s approach offers an alternative model of masculinity. Many expressed relief in seeing a man who can embrace and support his spouse while still gaining respect. Emhoff and similar men may not conform to traditional aggressive masculine ideals, but they represent a more modern, supportive version that appeals to those seeking a healthier standard of manhood.