In a statement exclusively provided to CNN on Saturday, Doug Emhoff, the husband of Vice President Kamala Harris, admitted to having an affair during his first marriage. The acknowledgment came in response to the publication of alleged details about the relationship by a British tabloid.

Emhoff expressed remorse for the impact his actions had on his first wife, Kerstin, stating, "During my first marriage, Kerstin and I went through some tough times on account of my actions. I took responsibility, and in the years since, we worked through things as a family and have come out stronger on the other side."

The affair, reportedly with one of his daughter's teachers at the time, resulted in the end of Emhoff's first marriage. The circumstances surrounding the relationship were known to Joe Biden's vetting committee four years ago, during Harris' selection process as a running mate. A person familiar with the conversations confirmed that Emhoff had disclosed the affair to Harris well before they got married.

It is important to note that the relationship ended years before Emhoff and Harris began dating. The Daily Mail, which reported on the affair, also alleged that the woman became pregnant but did not keep the child. CNN attempted to contact the woman for comment but received no response.

Brian Fallon, a spokesperson for the Harris campaign, declined to provide further comment beyond the statement. When asked if the campaign disputes the basic facts reported by the Daily Mail, Fallon also opted not to comment.

In her own statement, Kerstin Emhoff, Doug's ex-wife, stated that their marriage ended due to a variety of reasons many years ago. Despite the separation, she praised Emhoff as a great father and a supportive friend. Emhoff's two children from his first marriage are now adults, and over the years, a warm and friendly dynamic has developed in their blended family, with Kerstin speaking highly of Harris as a stepmother.

Emhoff, who has long regretted the circumstances and was aware of the potential public exposure, has emerged as an influential private adviser to Harris in the world of politics. He has consistently shown deep admiration and pride for his wife, even actively campaigning for her and countering attacks from opponents.

The statement from Emhoff comes as Vice President Harris is currently vetting and interviewing potential running mates. An announcement on her choice is expected to be made within the coming week.

In conclusion, Doug Emhoff's acknowledgment of his past affair sheds light on personal challenges he faced during his first marriage. While the circumstances have been known for years, the statement provides insight into how the family worked through those difficulties, resulting in their strengthened bond. As Vice President Harris proceeds with her political endeavors, her husband's support and dedication remain unwavering.