Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have officially endorsed Kamala Harris to take on Donald Trump in the upcoming US presidential election, marking a heartwarming turn of events. The endorsement comes after a period of silence from the Obamas, who had previously suggested an open contest to decide the Democratic nominee.
The endorsement was revealed in a video released by Harris, showcasing a joint phone call between the three. In the call, Barack Obama expressed his pride and support, saying, “We called to say, 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.”
Michelle Obama, whose popularity has soared in recent polls, added her own words of encouragement, telling Harris, “I can’t have this phone call without saying to my girl Kamala: I am proud of you. This is going to be historic.”
Harris, visibly moved by the support, responded, “Oh my goodness. Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me. I am looking forward to doing this with the two of you – Doug [her husband] and I both. 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! It means so much. And… we’re gonna have some fun with this, too, aren’t we?”
Barack Obama then referred to Harris as a “happy warrior,” a term that underscores her resilience and optimism. Michelle Obama echoed this sentiment, stating, “And the country needs a happy warrior.” She also emphasized the importance of rallying around Harris, urging everyone to register and vote.
Harris is almost certain to secure the Democratic nomination, setting the stage for a showdown with Republican candidate and former President Donald Trump. The Obamas’ endorsement comes after other top Democrats, including Bill and Hillary Clinton and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, had already thrown their support behind Harris.
Initially, the Obamas were slower to publicly endorse Harris, with Barack Obama releasing a statement after Joe Biden’s withdrawal that called for a process to select an outstanding nominee. However, their endorsement today follows reports that Obama and Harris have been in regular contact since she announced her candidacy.
Governors Gavin Newsom and Josh Shapiro, once considered potential substitutes for Biden, are among dozens of Democratic elected officials who have shown their support for Harris. Both could be in contention to be selected as her running mate and vice presidential candidate.
The Democratic party’s fundraising platform had its biggest day of the year after Biden pulled out of the race, with nearly $50 million (£38.7 million) pouring in. Labor unions and advocacy groups have also rallied behind Harris, signaling strong support for her candidacy.
