Barack and Michelle Obama have officially endorsed Kamala Harris for President. The former President and First Lady ended days of speculation by declaring Harris as the candidate with the “vision, the character, and the strength that this critical moment demands” in a joint statement.
The Endorsement Announcement
The endorsement was paired with a video of the Obamas calling Harris to convey their support. Barack Obama can be heard saying, “We call to say Michelle and I couldn’t be prouder to endorse you.” Harris, clearly moved, responded, “Oh my goodness, Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me.”
The Statement
In their statement, the Obamas expressed their enthusiasm and commitment to help Harris win the election. They vowed to do “everything we can” to elect her, echoing President Biden’s quick endorsement of Harris after his withdrawal from the race.
Reaction and Speculation
While other prominent Democrats, such as Bill and Hillary Clinton, swiftly backed Harris, the Obamas’ delayed endorsement sparked speculation. Initially, Obama’s statement stopped short of explicitly supporting Harris, leading to widespread curiosity about his final stance.
Kamala Harris’s Campaign
Harris launched her first 2024 presidential campaign video, using Beyoncé’s “Freedom” as the soundtrack, to emphasize the stakes of the election. “There are some people who think we should be a country of chaos. Of fear. Of hate,” Harris stated in the voiceover, countered by images of her rival, Donald Trump. “But us. We choose something different. We choose freedom.” Her campaign also included an appearance on the season finale of RuPaul’s Drag Race All Stars.
Emotional Call with the Obamas
In a video released Friday, Barack and Michelle Obama endorsed Harris during an emotional phone call. “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,” Barack Obama said. Harris, expressing her gratitude, replied, “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.”
Michelle Obama’s Support
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.”
The Obamas’ Praise
The Obamas praised Harris in their joint statement, highlighting her accomplishments and her suitability for the presidency. “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.”
Harris’s Regular Communication with Obama
Harris, the presumptive Democratic nominee, has maintained regular communication with Obama, who has been a sounding board for her throughout their 20-year acquaintance. Initially, Obama’s statement following Biden’s withdrawal expressed confidence in the Democratic Party’s ability to choose a strong nominee, without endorsing Harris outright.
Moving Forward
Obama’s decision to delay his endorsement was to ensure a legitimate process for selecting the Democratic nominee. An Obama adviser indicated that Obama intended to unify the party once a nominee was chosen, whether it was Harris or another candidate.
Democratic Party’s Process
The Democratic Party has moved quickly to adopt rules for nominating Harris, with voting likely to begin on August 1. The Democratic convention is scheduled to take place in Chicago from August 19 to 22, where a ceremonial vote for president and vice president will occur. Harris has yet to select a running mate, with an announcement expected before August 7.
In summary, the Obamas’ endorsement of Kamala Harris signifies a pivotal moment in her presidential campaign, boosting her momentum and uniting the Democratic Party as she prepares for the upcoming election.
