Barack Obama has officially endorsed Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for the presidency of the United States, a significant milestone that underscores the vice-president’s ability to unite the party’s influential figures behind her candidacy. This endorsement is particularly noteworthy as it indicates that Harris has successfully garnered the backing of all politically active high-profile Democrats, a crucial factor as she prepares for her White House bid.
Initially, Obama had chosen to remain neutral following Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the race, leading many to speculate that he favored an open nominating contest at the upcoming Democratic national convention in Chicago. However, the political landscape shifted dramatically when Harris secured endorsements from prominent figures, including Bill and Hillary Clinton, Nancy Pelosi, various state governors, and several of the most senior Democrats in Congress. With Biden himself also expressing his support, Obama’s endorsement adds considerable weight to Harris’s campaign.
In a heartfelt phone call that was filmed and shared by her campaign, Obama and his wife, Michelle, conveyed their pride and enthusiasm for Harris’s candidacy. In the video, Harris is seen holding an iPhone as she listens to the Obamas, who express their unwavering support. “I can’t have this phone call without saying to my girl Kamala: I am proud of you,” Michelle Obama states, emphasizing the historic nature of Harris’s campaign.
Barack Obama adds, “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.” In response, a visibly moved Harris expresses her gratitude, saying, “Oh my goodness. Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me. I am looking forward to doing this with the two of you, Doug and I both. And getting out there, being on the road.”
She continues, “But most of all, I just wanna tell you that the words you have spoken and the friendship that you have given over all these years mean more than I can express. So thank you both! It means so much. And we’re gonna have some fun with this too, aren’t we?”
This endorsement comes at a pivotal moment for the Harris campaign, which has made an impressive start. As they gear up for a “weekend of” activities aimed at energizing supporters and mobilizing voters, the backing from the Obamas is expected to provide a significant boost in momentum. With the support of such high-profile figures, Harris is poised to strengthen her position in the race for the presidency and rally the Democratic base as the election season progresses.
