Faith Nyasuguta
Barack Obama has officially endorsed Kamala Harris as the 2024 Democratic nominee for President. The announcement was made through a video released early Friday, featuring a joint endorsement with his wife, Michelle Obama.
In the video, the Obamas are seen speaking with Harris, expressing their enthusiastic support. Michelle Obama praised Harris, saying, “To my girl Kamala, I am proud of you. This is going to be historic.” Barack Obama added, “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.”
Harris responded by expressing her excitement and gratitude, saying she looked forward to working with the Obamas throughout the campaign.
This endorsement follows President Joe Biden’s recent decision to step out of the race and endorse Harris, a move that has been widely supported by many Democrats. However, Obama had initially withheld his public endorsement, leading to speculation. He had issued a statement praising Biden’s service and decision to withdraw but did not mention Harris at that time.
According to NBC News, Obama has been privately supporting Harris and maintaining contact with her this week. His decision to wait on a public endorsement was reportedly to avoid overshadowing Biden’s moment, especially before Biden’s Oval Office address. A source familiar with Obama’s perspective indicated that he believes Harris has made a strong start to her campaign.
Harris’s candidacy is historic. If elected, she would become the second Black president in U.S. history, following Obama, and would also be the first female president and the first president of South Asian descent. Her potential presidency represents a significant milestone in American history and diversity in leadership.
The former president’s endorsement is expected to bolster Harris’s campaign significantly, given Obama’s continuing popularity and influence within the Democratic Party. The support from the Obamas highlights a unified Democratic front as the party prepares for a challenging election season.
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