Barack Obama issued a statement on Friday morning endorsing Kamala Harris to be the Democratic 2024 presidential nominee, ending days of speculation over his support.
Barack and Michelle Obama stated they believe Harris has the “vision, the character, and the strength that this critical moment demands.” They expressed their excitement to endorse Harris and pledged to do “everything we can” to elect her.
“We agree with President Biden,” the couple’s statement read, “choosing Kamala was one of the best decisions he’s made. She has the resume to prove it.” They highlighted her record as California’s attorney general, U.S. senator, and vice president as evidence of her qualifications.
“But Kamala has more than a resume,” the statement continued. “She has the vision, the character, and the strength that this critical moment demands. There is no doubt in our mind that Kamala Harris has exactly what it takes to win this election and deliver for the American people. At a time when the stakes have never been higher, she gives us all reason to hope.”
The statement was accompanied by a video of Harris taking a phone call from the Obamas, pledging their support following her nomination after Biden dropped out. “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,” Obama told Harris, who was shown taking the call backstage at an event.
“Oh my goodness,” Harris responded. “Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me.”
Both Obamas had campaigned separately for Hillary Clinton in 2016 and Biden in 2020, including large rallies before Election Day and key speeches at the 2020 Democratic convention, which was held virtually due to the coronavirus pandemic.
