Former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama have officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for her run for the presidency. This endorsement is significant because Obama remains one of the most popular figures in the Democratic Party.
The endorsement was made public on a Friday morning through a video. In the video, Kamala Harris receives a phone call from the Obamas. This call comes at a crucial time as Harris is gaining momentum to become the Democratic nominee for president after President Joe Biden decided not to run for re-election.
Biden has endorsed Harris to be his successor, which adds weight to her campaign against the Republican nominee, former President Donald Trump.
The endorsement also highlights a historic moment in American politics. Barack Obama was the first Black president of the United States, and Kamala Harris, if elected, would be the first woman, the first Black woman, and the first person of Asian descent to hold the office of president.
The former president expressed his pride and support for Harris, stating that he and Michelle would do everything they could to help her win the election. Michelle Obama also shared her pride and excitement, calling the upcoming election historic.
Kamala Harris has known the Obamas since before Barack Obama’s presidency began in 2008. She thanked them for their friendship and support, and she expressed her excitement for the campaign ahead. Harris looks forward to campaigning with the Obamas over the next three months leading up to Election Day on November 5.
Obama’s endorsement was one of the last major endorsements Harris needed. Barack Obama has generally preferred to stay out of the political fray, acting as a senior statesman. However, both he and Michelle remain influential figures and effective fundraisers for Democratic candidates. Their support can draw large crowds and generate significant campaign contributions.
According to a survey by the Associated Press, Harris has already secured the backing of most delegates to the Democratic National Convention, set to start on August 19 in Chicago. The Democratic National Committee plans to conduct a virtual vote by August 7 to officially nominate Harris and her running mate as the Democratic ticket.
President Biden announced his decision to not seek re-election last Sunday, citing concerns about his ability to defeat Trump at 81 years old. Following Biden’s announcement, several prominent Democrats, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and former President Bill Clinton, quickly endorsed Harris.
Barack Obama took a cautious approach before publicly endorsing Harris. He wanted to ensure she had secured enough delegate commitments and had built strong support within the Democratic Party. His initial response to Biden’s announcement was neutral, focusing on the need for the party to find a strong nominee.
In previous elections, both Obamas campaigned extensively for Democratic candidates. They played significant roles in supporting Hillary Clinton in 2016 and Joe Biden in 2020, delivering impactful speeches and attending large rallies. Their involvement is expected to be a key asset for Harris as she campaigns against Trump.
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