Barack and Michelle Obama have officially endorsed Kamala Harris as the Democrat's candidate for the November presidential election.
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Following President Biden's decision to not run for a second term, Obama initially appeared to call for an open primary instead of endorsing Harris.
In his statement, Obama praised Biden as a "dear friend and partner" and one of "America's most consequential presidents."
He commended Biden for his leadership and decision to withdraw, describing it as "right for America" and a "historic example of a genuine public servant once again putting the interests of the American people ahead of his own."
Obama acknowledged the challenges ahead for the Democratic Party, stating: "The Democratic Party will be navigating uncharted waters in the days ahead, but I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges."
However, he now appears to have changed his mind and has openly endorsed Harris to be the new Democratic candidate.
This move marks a significant moment as Obama was one of the last major Democratic figures to weigh in on the 2024 race.
Obama, 62, spoke highly of Harris, emphasizing her qualifications for the presidency. “She has the vision, the character, and the strength that this critical moment demands,” Obama stated.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Obama shared: “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 November. We hope you’ll join us.”
Other Democratic leaders had already endorsed Harris, including President Joe Biden, who supported her immediately after announcing his withdrawal from the race on July 21.
Notable endorsements also came from Bill and Hillary Clinton, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
Obama's decision to delay his endorsement was partly to avoid overshadowing Biden’s withdrawal announcement and primetime address on Wednesday.
Following Biden's address, Obama praised him on X, writing: “Joe Biden has stayed true to these words again and again over a lifetime of service to the American people. Thank you, @POTUS.”
Reports suggest that Obama’s delayed endorsement aimed to boost Harris’s campaign momentum.
The Harris for President campaign reported raising over $100 million between Sunday afternoon and Monday evening, suggesting a strong start.
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