In a significant and highly awaited move, Barack Obama, along with former First Lady Michelle Obama, has officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the successor to Joe Biden in the White House. This endorsement is a crucial step for the Democratic Party as they navigate the road to the 2024 U.S. Presidential elections.
A video capturing a heartfelt phone conversation between the former First Couple and Harris has been released, signaling that all is in place for Harris to take the mantle as the Democrats’ Presidential nominee.
The Final “Major” Democratic Endorsement for Harris’ Presidential Bid
With this endorsement, the Obamas have carefully navigated the political landscape following Biden’s endorsement of Harris as the party’s nominee for the upcoming elections. Their measured public stance has played a pivotal role in Harris securing key delegate commitments, amassing over $120 million in campaign funds, and garnering several influential endorsements from across the party.
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It is perhaps fitting that the Obamas, who are often remembered for their characteristic “public caution” in similar political moments, such as Biden’s election run against Donald Trump in 2020, have chosen this moment to speak out. Barack Obama maintained a quiet demeanor during the critical weeks between Biden’s debate against Trump, choosing to speak publicly only after Biden decided not to pursue a second term.
After Biden announced his withdrawal from the race, Obama released a statement expressing his “extraordinary confidence” in the Democratic Party’s ability to select an outstanding nominee through a unifying process. An adviser to the former President noted that Obama would prefer to work behind the scenes to unify the party around the eventual nominee.
The endorsement of Harris by two of the most popular figures in American politics today signals a strong unification within the Democratic Party around Harris’ bid for the White House in 2024. It also highlights a historic moment—a phone call between America’s first Black President and its first female and Asian Vice President—that will likely be remembered for years to come.
Highlights from the Endorsement Video
In the video, Barack Obama is heard saying,
“Michelle and I couldn’t be prouder to endorse you and do everything we can to get you through this election and into the Oval Office,”
as he speaks to Harris, who is seen walking backstage at an event under the watchful eyes of a Secret Service agent.
Michelle Obama adds her voice to the endorsement, saying,
“I can’t have this phone call without saying to my girl, Kamala, I am proud of you,”
alluding to the “historic” nature of this election cycle and Harris’ role within it.
In response, Harris expresses her gratitude to the former First Couple, stating that she looks forward to joining them in the party’s campaign efforts leading up to the November 5 Presidential elections.
The Path Forward
According to a survey conducted by the Associated Press, Harris has already secured the backing of the majority of the delegates to the Democratic National Convention, which will commence on August 19 in Chicago. Meanwhile, Harris is poised to announce her potential running mate by August 7. Voting to officially nominate Harris is expected to begin this Thursday.
Conclusion
In a video that captures a moment of profound support, Michelle Obama and Barack Obama have endorsed Kamala Harris for the U.S. Presidency. The Vice President, in turn, expressed her deep appreciation for their backing, looking forward to what Michelle Obama refers to as a “historic” electioneering process.
