Doug Emhoff’s Firm Targeted by Kamala Harris Over Trump Deal
Former Vice President Kamala Harris recently criticized organizations for yielding to “unconstitutional threats” from President Donald Trump. Speaking at the Leading Women Defined Summit, Harris highlighted a prevailing “sense of fear,” condemning the silence and submission of various entities. Although she did not specify any organizations by name, her remarks came shortly after Willkie Farr & Gallagher LLP, the law firm where her husband, Doug Emhoff, is a partner, reached an agreement with the Trump administration.
On April 1, 2025, Willkie Farr & Gallagher committed at least $100 million in pro bono work to causes aligned with conservative ideals, as part of a deal to avoid a punitive executive order from the White House. This agreement made Willkie the third major law firm to broker such a deal with the Trump administration. Emhoff reportedly expressed disagreement with the firm’s decision, advocating instead for resistance against the executive order.
Former President Barack Obama also voiced concerns about the administration’s actions, stating he was “troubled” by the notion of the White House singling out individual firms. He emphasized the importance of institutions standing by their principles, even at the risk of financial loss.
About the Author
