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Obamas Back Kamala Harris with Pivotal Endorsement
The Obamas have officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris in her bid for the White House. This endorsement is significant, given their influence within the Democratic Party.
WASHINGTON — On Friday morning, former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama announced their support for Kamala Harris. This endorsement strengthens Harris’ position as the likely Democratic nominee following President Joe Biden’s decision not to seek reelection.
The endorsement was made public through a video showing Harris receiving a call from the Obamas. President Biden’s decision to endorse Harris has also positioned her against Republican nominee and former President Donald Trump.
This endorsement underscores the historic bond between Barack Obama, the nation’s first Black president, and Kamala Harris, the first woman, first Black woman, and first person of Asian descent to serve as Vice President. Harris now aims to break further barriers by attaining the presidency.
“We called to say 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,” Barack Obama told Harris, who was backstage at an event during the call.
Michelle Obama added, “I can’t have this phone call without saying to my girl, Kamala, I am proud of you. This is going to be historic.”
Harris expressed gratitude for the Obamas’ friendship and support, looking forward to campaigning with them before Election Day on November 5.
The Obamas’ endorsement, though expected, comes as Harris secures the backing of a majority of delegates ahead of the Democratic National Convention in August. An Associated Press survey indicated that Harris has the public support of most delegates, and the Democratic National Committee plans a virtual nominating vote by August 7.
Following Biden’s decision to cease his campaign, he endorsed Harris quickly. Other significant Democratic figures, including Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer, Hakeem Jeffries, Jim Clyburn, Bill Clinton, and Hillary Clinton, followed suit.
In contrast to other endorsements, the Obamas were more measured. They allowed Harris to solidify her delegate support and raise over $120 million before publicly announcing their support.
Interestingly, Barack Obama’s initial statement post-Biden’s announcement didn’t mention Harris directly. Instead, he emphasized confidence in the Democratic Party’s ability to nominate a strong candidate.
Both Obamas played critical roles in the 2016 and 2020 campaigns for Hillary Clinton and Joe Biden, respectively. Notably, Barack Obama’s 2020 convention speech was a poignant critique of Trump, an argument that Harris now carries forward in her campaign.