This is a breaking news story and will be updated here.
NEW YORK (Unmuted News) — In a significant development for the Democratic Party, Vice President Kamala Harris has received the formal endorsement of former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama for her presidential campaign. This major endorsement was delivered through a video broadcast that featured Harris receiving a call from the influential political pair, marking a pivotal moment as Harris builds her case as the leading Democratic candidate following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the race.
During the call, captured on video, Barack Obama expressed considerable pride in endorsing Harris, assuring her of their full support through the electoral process. Michelle Obama echoed this sentiment, acknowledging the historic nature of Harris’s candidacy and conveying her personal pride in Harris’s achievements.
Earlier this week, Michelle and I called our friend @KamalaHarris. 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… pic.twitter.com/0UIS0doIbA
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) July 26, 2024
The endorsement arrives as Harris has rapidly secured the required delegate support ahead of the Democratic National Convention scheduled to begin on August 19th in Chicago. With a virtual nomination process set by August 7th, Harris is expected to be officially named the Democratic contender alongside her yet-to-be-announced running mate.
The backing from the Obamas follows endorsements from significant Democratic leaders like former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, among others, shortly after Biden announced his exit from the race. While President Biden endorsed Harris almost immediately, the Obamas exhibited a more measured approach during the interim, reflective of Barack Obama’s broader strategy to maintain a non-partisan elder statesman role within the party dynamics.
Both Obamas have been pivotal figures in previous election cycles, having campaigned vigorously for Hillary Clinton in 2016 and Joe Biden in 2020. Their efforts have included key speeches at major party conventions and participation in significant campaign rallies, underscoring their continued influence and appeal within the party.
With this endorsement, Vice President Harris not only cements her position within the Democratic Party but also signals a unifying moment as she prepares for the upcoming electoral battle set for November 5th. The support of the Obamas is expected to amplify her campaign, adding to the momentum as the decisive Election Day approaches.