Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris in her bid for the White House. The announcement, made in a video released on Friday, marks a significant boost for Harris as she prepares to navigate the 2024 presidential election.
In the video, Barack Obama expressed his and Michelle's support directly to Harris. "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," the former president said during a phone call with Harris, which was joined by his wife.
Harris responded with gratitude, highlighting the long-standing friendship and support from the Obamas. "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," Harris said. She added, "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. It means so much. And we're gonna have some fun with this too, aren't we?"
Michelle Obama also shared her pride in Harris, emphasizing the historic nature of the upcoming election. "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 former First Lady said.
In a joint statement announcing their endorsement, the Obamas praised Harris's qualifications and character. "But Kamala has more than a resume," the statement read. "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."
The statement continued, "At a time when the stakes have never been higher, she gives us all reason to hope."
Obama's endorsement came after careful consideration and timing. According to a source close to the matter, the former president believed it was crucial for the Democratic Party to have a legitimate process by which delegates would select their new nominee. An adviser to Obama noted that his approach mirrored the one he took during the 2020 Democratic primary, watching closely to unify the party once a nominee was chosen.
Initially, Obama did not immediately endorse Harris following President Joe Biden's announcement that he would not seek reelection. "I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges," Obama had said in a statement at the time.
Throughout Biden's reelection campaign, Obama had been a supportive figure, attending fundraisers and participating in moderated conversations to raise millions of dollars for the campaign. Now, with the party's focus shifting to Harris, Obama's endorsement is expected to bring significant support and momentum.
The Democratic Party has been moving swiftly to solidify Harris as their nominee. Party rules adopted on Wednesday outline the process for officially nominating her, with voting set to begin on August 1. The Democratic convention, scheduled for August 19-22 in Chicago, will feature ceremonial votes for president and vice president, with Harris yet to select a running mate.
As Harris's team conducts an accelerated search for a vice-presidential candidate, aiming for an announcement before August 7, the Obamas' endorsement adds a powerful voice to her campaign. Barack Obama's star power and continued influence within the Democratic Party are expected to play a pivotal role as Harris heads into the election season.
The endorsement also underscores the importance of unity and support within the party. As Barack Obama said during the phone call, "We're absolutely confident that you're gonna be able to make it happen. And I wanna make sure that, you know, we're sending a message out to not just Democrats but every American - Democrat, Republican, Independent and especially young people - that the stakes are high."
The former president's endorsement, along with Michelle Obama's vocal support, sets a significant tone for Harris's campaign. With less than 100 days to the presidential election, the backing of such influential figures could prove crucial in maintaining the momentum Harris has enjoyed since entering the race.
