Barack and Michelle Obama Endorse Kamala Harris For President
Former President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle have endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for the presidency in a new video released on Friday.
In a phone call captured in the video, Obama expressed his and Michelle's full support, saying, "We called to say Michelle and I couldn’t be prouder to endorse you and to do everything we can to get you through this election and into the Oval Office." Michelle Obama added, "I am proud of you. This is going to be historic."
The endorsement comes as Harris's campaign gains momentum following President Joe Biden's decision to bow out of the race due to low poll numbers.
Harris thanked the Obamas for their support and emphasised the significance of their long-standing friendship. "Thank you both. It means so much. And we’re gonna have some fun with this too," she said.
Endorsement to boost Harris campaign
The endorsement is expected to provide a significant boost to Harris's campaign, energising supporters and attracting more donors. Obama remains a highly influential figure within the Democratic Party and has previously helped raise substantial funds for Biden's campaign through high-profile fundraisers.
In a joint statement, the Obamas praised Harris’s qualifications and character. "She has the vision, the character, and the strength that this critical moment demands," they said. "At a time when the stakes have never been higher, she gives us all reason to hope."
Obama's support came after he initially withheld his endorsement to allow the Democratic Party to work through its nomination process. However, with Harris now the presumptive nominee, Obama has pledged to actively support her campaign.
Harris calls for ban on assault weapons
Harris has been busy on the campaign trail, addressing various groups and emphasising the need for change. During a recent event with the American Federation of Teachers in Houston, she criticised Republican policies and called for banning assault weapons.
Trumps labels Harris a "radical left Marxist"
Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has already started attacking Harris, calling her a "radical left Marxist" on his social media platform, Truth Social. He also hinted at a possible refusal to debate Harris until she is officially confirmed as the nominee, suggesting Democrats might still prefer another candidate.
Harris meets with Israeli PM
In addition to campaign events, Harris has been engaging in significant international discussions. She recently had "frank and constructive" talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, expressing her concerns about casualties in Gaza and stressing the need for a two-state solution.
With the Democratic Party set to officially nominate Harris in August, the race for the presidency is heating up. The Obamas’ endorsement marks a pivotal moment, as they vow to do "everything we can" to help Harris win the election and deliver for the American people.