Barack And Michelle Obama Endorse Kamala Harris For 2024 US Presidential Race

Former US President Barack Obama and his wife Michelle Obama have publicly endorsed Kamala Harris as the Democratic presidential nominee. In a tweet, Barack Obama expressed that both he and Michelle believe their "friend" Harris would make an "excellent President of the United States".

"Earlier this week, Michelle and I called our friend Kamala Harris. We told her we think she'll make a fantastic President of the United States, and that she has our full support. At this critical moment for our country, we're going to do everything we can to make sure she wins in November. We hope you'll join us," Barack Obama tweeted with a clip capturing a phone call between the US Vice President and the Obamas.

The 55-second video shows Kamala Harris, 59, walking towards her motorcade backstage at an event when she answers a phone call on speaker. She beams with joy upon realising that both Barack and Michelle Obama are on the line.

Obama's Endorsement Amid Speculation

The endorsements come after days of speculation that Harris, who was pitched for the White House top after US President Joe Biden dropped out of the race last week, may not have the full support of the Obamas. The delay in endorsement, which was in stark contrast with other Democratic leaders, including former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, backing Harris - led to the speculation.

Furthermore, a Biden family source told The New York Post that Barack Obama is "very upset" because he knows "incompetent" Kamala Harris cannot win. According to the source, Barack Obama had hoped to get Joe Biden out of the way, and an article written by Hollywood actor George Clooney in the New York Times asking him to drop out of the White House race was part of that plan.

Michelle Obama's Support

"Oh, it's good to hear you both," said Harris in the clip. Michelle Obama added, "I can't have this phone call without saying to my girl Kamala: I am proud of you," noting that the campaign is going to be "historic". Then, Barack Obama is heard saying that he and his wife couldn't be prouder to endorse Kamala Harris and will "do everything we can to get you through this election and into the Oval Office".

The 59-year-old Vice President shared the same clip on her X account as well. "It means so much to have your endorsements, Michelle Obama and Barack Obama. Let's get to work," she tweeted.

Campaign Trail Plans

Despite these claims, NBC News reported that Barack Obama has been in close contact with Kamala Harris, offering her advice on organising her campaign and other elements crucial for launching a successful presidential bid. The Obamas are expected to hit the campaign trail later this summer to help excite Democratic voters.

The party is also preparing for its upcoming convention in Chicago in August - its first in-person convention since 2016. This move aims to galvanise support among Democrats as they gear up for a significant election season.

Barack Obama's endorsement follows reports from The New York Post suggesting he was 'shocked' when Joe Biden endorsed Kamala Harris immediately after dropping out of the race. Despite any initial reservations or delays, it appears both Obamas are now fully backing Harris's bid for presidency.