Former President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama have officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for the presidency. The endorsement was announced in a video released by the Harris campaign on Friday morning, featuring the political power couple calling Harris to express their support.
The video, recorded on Wednesday in Indianapolis where Harris was addressing the Zeta Phi Beta sorority, dispelled speculation about the Obamas’ stance on her candidacy. Their silence until now had fueled rumors that they might not be supportive of her bid.
A source close to President Joe Biden’s family suggested that Biden was upset about Harris’s candidacy, believing she would struggle against former President Donald Trump. However, a Democratic official clarified that the delay in the endorsement was to avoid overshadowing Biden’s Oval Office address on Wednesday night.
In the brief clip, President Obama’s voice can be heard greeting Harris, followed by Michelle Obama. Harris, visibly delighted, responded warmly. Michelle Obama expressed her pride in Harris, calling the moment historic, while President Obama stated their full support, pledging to do everything possible to help her win the election and reach the Oval Office.
Questions had arisen as to why the Obamas didn’t immediately back Harris, unlike other top Democrats. The Democratic official mentioned that the former president wanted to make a more impactful gesture than a mere statement.
Before the endorsement, the Trump campaign suggested that Obama was displeased with the party’s quick coalescence around Harris, with Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung calling her a “Marxist fraud” who could not beat Trump. This statement was part of a broader narrative indicating that Trump would not finalize a debate schedule until the Democrats formally decided on their nominee.
The Democratic nomination process, which is taking place virtually ahead of the Chicago convention, will conclude by August 7.
In the video, Harris expressed her eagerness to see the Obamas on the campaign trail. While Barack Obama had previously participated in high-profile fundraisers for Biden, Michelle Obama had not yet appeared at a campaign event. However, it appears she is ready to support Harris.
Harris thanked the Obamas for their friendship and support, expressing how much it meant to her. She ended the call on an optimistic note, anticipating a fun and energetic campaign.
“You’re a happy warrior,” President Obama said, with Michelle adding, “And the country needs a happy warrior.”
