In October 2024, Fox News host Jesse Watters sparked controversy during a segment on “The Five” by equating his wife Emma DiGiovine’s potential secret vote for Kamala Harris to committing adultery. He remarked that if he discovered Emma voted for Harris without his knowledge, it would be “the same thing as having an affair,” suggesting it would “violate the sanctity of our marriage.”

This statement was made in response to a campaign ad by Vote Common Good, featuring actress Julia Roberts, which encouraged women to vote according to their conscience, even if it differed from their husbands’ preferences. The ad implied that women could vote privately, without their partners’ knowledge.

Watters’ comparison of a secret vote to infidelity drew criticism from various quarters. Conservative commentator Charlie Kirk described the ad as “nauseating,” expressing concern over the notion of wives voting differently from their husbands.

The controversy highlights a broader discussion about privacy and autonomy in voting, especially among married couples. Some women may feel compelled to conceal their voting choices due to perceived or actual pressure from their partners. This situation underscores the importance of safeguarding individual voting rights and ensuring that all citizens can exercise their democratic duties without fear of retribution or judgment.

In summary, Jesse Watters’ remarks about his wife’s potential secret vote for Kamala Harris ignited a debate on marital privacy and voting rights, reflecting deeper societal concerns about autonomy and personal freedoms within relationships.