In The Know

Emhoff says White House Christmas décor will stay if Harris wins: ‘Maybe a few more dreidels’

Doug Emhoff says even though he celebrates Hanukkah, Christmas at the White House isn’t going anywhere if Vice President Harris becomes commander in chief.

“We may throw some gelt in there. Maybe a few more dreidels,” said the second gentleman, who is Jewish, with a smile in a Thursday interview on SiriusXM’s “Andy Cohen Live.”

Traditionally, first ladies have had a prominent role in selecting the theme and design of the annual holiday décor at the White House. 

While unveiling last year’s theme, “Magic, Wonder, and Joy,” Jill Biden said she hoped it evoked a sense of “how you saw the world as a child” for the 100,000 visitors who were expected at the White House throughout the holiday season. 

“I’m a Jew who loves Christmas,” host Andy Cohen told Emhoff while asking about the future of the holiday decorations if Harris wins the White House race against former President Trump. 


“I will uphold my oath of office,” Emhoff said.

In 2022, a menorah crafted by the Executive Residence Carpentry Shop was displayed as part of the Biden White House’s seasonal decor. The Hanukkah lamp was the first menorah ever added to the official White House collection.