Barack and Michelle Obama officially back Kamala Harris for president. Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential bid in a video released on Friday. The endorsement comes as Harris is poised to become the Democratic nominee for president, following President Joe Biden’s announcement that he will not seek re-election.
In the video, Obama praised Harris, saying, “Michelle and I couldn’t be prouder to endorse you and to do everything we can to get you through this election and into the Oval Office.” Michelle Obama added, “I am proud of you, Kamala. This is going to be historic.”
Harris thanked the Obamas for their support, saying, “Oh my goodness. Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me. I’m looking forward to doing this with the two of you, Doug and I both. And getting out there, being on the road… But most of all, I just want to tell you 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.”
The Obamas’ endorsement is significant, as they are widely respected and popular figures within the Democratic Party. Their support is likely to boost Harris’ campaign and provide her with a significant advantage in the general election.
In a joint statement announcing the endorsement, the Obamas praised Harris, saying, “Kamala has more than a resume. She has the vision, the character, and the strength that this critical moment demands. There is no doubt in our mind that Kamala Harris has exactly what it takes to win this election and deliver for the American people.”
Obama’s endorsement of Harris is not surprising, given their long history of working together. Harris served as Attorney General of California during Obama’s presidency, and he has been a vocal supporter of her career.
However, Obama did not immediately endorse Harris following President Biden’s announcement that he would not seek re-election. Instead, he released a statement saying, “I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges.”
An Obama adviser told CNN that the former president was taking the same approach as he did during the 2020 Democratic primary, watching closely with the intent of being able to unify the party when a nominee is chosen.
Democrats have been moving quickly in their process to nominate Harris, with voting to officially nominate her likely to begin on August 1. The party has adopted rules to choose their presidential nominee, including ceremonial votes for president and vice president, as well as a vote on the party platform.
Harris has not yet selected a running mate, but a team of lawyers and advisers are conducting an accelerated vice presidential search, with a goal of announcing a nominee before August 7.
Overall, the Obamas’ endorsement of Harris is a significant boost to her campaign and provides her with the support of two of the most popular figures in the Democratic Party. As the 2024 election approaches, Harris will need to navigate the challenges of the campaign trail and prove herself as a capable and effective leader.
