Kamala Harris’ stepdaughter Ella Emhoff shuts down 'mental breakdown' rumors after election

Ella Emhoff has addressed rumors claiming she was hospitalized for a “mental breakdown” following her stepmother, Kamala Harris’s loss to Donald Trump in the 2024 presidential election.

In response to the speculation, Ella, the daughter of Second Gentleman Douglas Emhoff, took to her Instagram Story on Saturday to clarify: “OK, I’m just gonna go out and say it.”

Courtesy: Ella Emhoff/Instagram

“There’s a rumor about me having a mental breakdown and getting checked into a hospital. Not true,” she wrote.

Ella further expressed frustration at those spreading the rumors, saying, “Also f–k you if you’re out there spreading that. There’s nothing wrong with showing emotion and crying. Anyone who says there is probably needs a good cry.”

The 25-year-old also shared that she has faced “mental health” challenges throughout her “whole life” and is not “ashamed” of it.

Her mother, Kerstin Emhoff, defended Ella on X, calling the rumors “MAGA bs” and writing, “Leave my kids alone!!! Ella is doing great and spending a lovely day with her mom!”

“Having the ability to show your emotions is something we should all hope for. It’s ok to not feel great right now. We aren’t letting anyone break our family down,” Kerstin added.

Ella’s response came after she was seen crying during Harris’s concession speech at Howard University on Wednesday.

The day after, Ella posted on Instagram, reflecting on her stepmother’s loss.

“Truly no words. We are all gonna get through this. It just f–king hurts like a bitch right now and that’s OK,” she shared, according to Fox News.

Ella continued, encouraging her followers to support each other and focus on making positive changes in their communities.

A strong supporter of Harris, Ella attended the 2024 Democratic National Convention in August.

Her mother, Kerstin, was married to Douglas Emhoff from 1992 until 2008. He married Harris in 2014.

Douglas and Kerstin also have a son, Cole Emhoff.