Barack Obama has officially endorsed Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for the 2024 U.S. presidential election, marking a significant boost for the vice-president’s campaign. This endorsement rounds out a powerful show of support from prominent figures in the Democratic Party, including Bill and Hillary Clinton, Nancy Pelosi, and numerous state governors and senior congressional Democrats.
The endorsement comes after a period of speculation regarding Obama’s stance following President Joe Biden's withdrawal from the race. Initially, it was anticipated that Obama might favor a more open nominating process at the upcoming Democratic National Convention in Chicago. However, with Harris gaining substantial backing from other key Democratic leaders, Obama has now added his influential voice to the mix.
In a video released by Harris's campaign on Friday, Obama and his wife, Michelle, are seen making a heartfelt phone call to Harris. Michelle Obama expressed her pride and excitement for Harris, saying, “I can’t have this phone call without saying to my girl Kamala: I am proud of you. This is going to be historic.”
Barack Obama echoed his wife’s sentiments, adding, “Michelle and I couldn’t be prouder to endorse you and do everything we can to get you through this election and into the Oval Office.”
In response, Harris conveyed her deep appreciation, stating, “Oh my goodness. Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me. I’m looking forward to doing this with the two of you. And getting out there, being on the road. But most of all, I just wanna tell you that 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!”
The endorsement aligns with Harris's campaign efforts as it embarks on a “weekend of action,” marking 100 days until the election with over 170,000 volunteers participating in 2,300 events across battleground states.
As the first Black U.S. president endorses a candidate who could become the first female, first Black, and first South Asian president if elected, Harris's campaign has gained significant momentum. Recent polling shows Harris closing the gap with former President Donald Trump, who currently leads by a narrow margin of 48% to 47% among likely voters, according to a New York Times/Siena College survey. This marks a shift from Trump’s earlier six-point lead over Biden.
Obama's endorsement is a critical step in solidifying support for Harris as she prepares for the high-stakes election ahead.
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