Barack Obama has officially endorsed Vice-President Kamala Harris for the Democratic presidential nomination, concluding days of speculation about his support. In a joint statement with former First Lady Michelle Obama, the couple expressed their strong belief in Harris’s capabilities, stating she possesses the “vision, the character, and the strength that this critical moment demands.”
Following President Joe Biden’s recent announcement of his withdrawal from the race, Harris engaged in discussions with over 100 prominent Democrats, including Obama. Although Obama had praised Biden’s decision to exit the race, he had initially refrained from endorsing Harris.
Harris has already garnered the backing of a majority of Democratic delegates, positioning her as the likely nominee at the party’s convention in August. The Obamas declared in their statement that they were “thrilled to endorse” Harris and committed to doing “everything we can” to ensure her election. They praised Biden’s choice of Harris, stating, “Choosing Kamala was one of the best decisions he’s made. She has the resume to prove it,” referencing her tenure as California’s attorney general, a US senator, and vice-president.
“But Kamala has more than a resume,” the statement added. “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. At a time when the stakes have never been higher, she gives us all reason to hope.” The endorsement was shared alongside a video of Harris receiving a phone call from the Obamas, during which they pledged their support. “Oh my goodness,” Harris exclaimed in the video. “Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me.”
In the days following Biden’s withdrawal, Harris has been active on the campaign trail. On Thursday, she addressed the American Federation of Teachers union in Houston. Although the event was officially part of her vice-presidential duties, it had the feel of a campaign rally, with enthusiastic applause and cheers from the audience. Harris criticized “extremist” Republicans and their “failed” policies, stating, “We want to ban assault weapons, and they want to ban books.”
Meanwhile, Donald Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, has ramped up his attacks on Harris. On his social media platform Truth Social, Trump labeled her “Lyin’ Kamala Harris” and a “radical left Marxist, and worse!” He also indicated he would not agree to a televised debate with Harris until her nomination is official, suggesting Democrats might still be seeking a different candidate.
In addition to her campaign activities, Harris has been involved in international diplomacy. She had “frank and constructive” discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging an end to the Israel-Gaza war. The conflict began after an attack on southern Israel in October, which resulted in approximately 1,200 deaths and 251 hostages being taken. Since then, the Gaza health ministry, controlled by Hamas, reports that over 39,000 people have been killed.
Harris expressed her “serious concerns” about the casualties in Gaza, emphasizing to Netanyahu the importance of how Israel conducts its defense. She also reiterated the necessity for a two-state solution. Netanyahu has met with President Biden and is scheduled to meet with Trump as well.
Harris’s multi-faceted campaign approach, including both domestic engagements and international diplomacy, highlights her readiness to address the varied and significant challenges facing the nation. As the Democratic convention approaches, her endorsement by influential figures like the Obamas strengthens her position and amplifies her message of hope and resilience during critical times.
