Barack, Michelle Obama ‘proud’ to endorse ‘friend’ Kamala Harris
· Obamas say will do ‘everything’ to help Harris win the White House race
· Harris thanks for endorsement, says ‘means so much’
In a highly anticipated move, former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for the upcoming presidential election. The endorsement was announced via Twitter, with Barack Obama expressing his and Michelle’s belief in Harris’s potential to lead the nation. “Earlier this week, Michelle and I called our friend Kamala Harris. We told her we think she’ll make a fantastic President of the United States, and that she has our full support. At this critical moment for our country, we’re going to do everything we can to make sure she wins in November. We hope you’ll join us,” Obama tweeted alongside a video clip.
The Emotional Phone Call
The 55-second video clip shared with the tweet captures a heartwarming phone call between the Obamas and Harris. The clip shows Harris, 59, backstage at an event, heading towards her motorcade and answering the call on speaker. Her face lights up with a smile as she hears both Barack and Michelle on the other end. “Oh, it’s good to hear you both,” Harris exclaims with joy. Michelle Obama expresses her pride, saying, “I can’t have this phone call without saying to my girl Kamala: I am proud of you,” and adds that the campaign is going to be “historic.” Barack Obama follows, reiterating their pride and commitment to support Harris through the election and into the Oval Office.
Harris’s Response
Harris shared the same clip on her X account (formerly known as Twitter), expressing her gratitude for the endorsements. “It means so much to have your endorsements, Michelle Obama and Barack Obama. Let’s get to work,” she tweeted. This public endorsement comes at a crucial time, especially after recent speculation about the Obamas’ support for Harris.
Speculation and Controversy
The delay in the Obamas’ endorsement had fueled rumors about potential hesitations. Other prominent Democratic leaders, including former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, had already expressed their support for Harris. Additionally, a Biden family source had claimed that Barack Obama was “very upset” because he believed Kamala Harris was “incompetent” and unlikely to win. According to this source, Obama had hoped for Joe Biden to step aside, with Hollywood actor George Clooney’s article in the New York Times urging Biden to drop out being part of this plan. However, Obama was reportedly “shocked” when Biden immediately endorsed Harris.
Behind the Scenes Support
Despite these claims, NBC News reported that Barack Obama has been in close contact with Harris, providing advice on campaign organization and strategy. This ongoing support suggests a strong, behind-the-scenes partnership aimed at ensuring Harris’s successful bid for the presidency.
The Obamas are expected to actively campaign for Harris later this summer, energizing Democratic voters as the party prepares for its convention in Chicago in August. This will be the first in-person convention since 2016, adding to the excitement and momentum building around Harris’s campaign. As the Democratic Party rallies behind Kamala Harris, the endorsement from the Obamas marks a significant boost, reflecting their confidence in her leadership and vision for America’s future.
(With inputs from agencies)
