Former President Barack Obama and ex-First Lady Michelle Obama have officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic presidential nominee, concluding speculation about their support.
In a joint statement released Friday, the Obamas strongly endorsed Harris, praising her for having the “vision, the character, and the strength” needed at this critical juncture. Their backing comes after President Joe Biden’s announcement last Sunday that he was withdrawing from the race.
While Obama previously lauded Biden’s decision to step down, he had not yet endorsed Harris. Following Biden’s exit, Harris has secured the support of a majority of Democratic delegates, positioning her as the likely nominee for the party convention in August.
“We could not be more thrilled to endorse Kamala,” the Obamas stated. “Choosing Kamala was one of the best decisions President Biden has made. She has the resume to prove it.”
The statement highlighted Harris’s career achievements, including her tenure as California’s attorney general, a U.S. senator, and vice president. It emphasized that beyond her impressive resume, Harris possesses the necessary qualities to lead the country.
“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 Obamas said. “At a time when the stakes have never been higher, she gives us all reason to hope.”
Accompanying the statement was a video showing Harris receiving a phone call from the Obamas, where they reaffirmed their support. Harris expressed her gratitude in the clip, saying, “Oh my goodness, Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me.”
Since Biden’s withdrawal, Harris has ramped up her campaign activities. On Thursday, she addressed the American Federation of Teachers union in Houston, framing the event with campaign rhetoric despite its official designation as a vice-presidential duty.
In her speech, Harris criticized “extremist” Republicans and “failed” policies, drawing applause from the audience. “We want to ban assault weapons, and they want to ban books,” she declared.
Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has already begun targeting Harris, describing her as a “radical left Marxist” in a post on his social media platform, Truth Social. Trump has also indicated he will not commit to a televised debate with Harris until she is officially confirmed as the Democratic nominee, suggesting that Democrats might still be considering other candidates.
