In a significant political development, former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris' presidential bid, marking a strategic move by top Democrats to consolidate support against Republican Donald Trump in the upcoming November 5 election.
A Historic Endorsement
The Obamas' endorsement, announced on Friday, follows President Joe Biden's decision to withdraw from the race, amidst growing opposition within his party. This shift has brought renewed momentum to Harris' campaign, as recent opinion polls indicate her gaining ground on Trump. The endorsement came via a heartfelt phone call, shared publicly through a campaign video.
"We called to say Michelle and I couldn't be prouder to endorse you and to do everything we can to get you through this election and into the Oval Office," Barack Obama told Harris. Michelle Obama added, "I am proud of you. This is going to be historic." Harris, visibly moved, expressed her gratitude and optimism, "Thank you both. It means so much. And we're gonna have some fun with this too."
A Boost from Party Favorites
The Obamas remain immensely popular within the Democratic Party, with Barack Obama being the first Black U.S. president and Michelle Obama holding a favorability rating of 55% among Americans, and a striking 94% among Democrats, according to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll. This is notably higher than Harris' 37% favorability nationwide and 81% within the party.
Obama's backing is expected to significantly enhance Harris' campaign, both in terms of support and fundraising. It also suggests that Obama will likely take an active role on the campaign trail, rallying support for Harris. The Democratic Party has swiftly united behind Harris, who secured enough delegate support on Monday to confirm her nomination.
The Political Landscape and International Affairs
As the campaign intensifies, Trump is scheduled to meet Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu at his Florida resort, following Netanyahu's meetings with Biden and Harris in Washington. Harris, adopting a more assertive stance than Biden, urged Netanyahu to facilitate a ceasefire in Gaza. In her public statement, Harris declared, "It is time for this war to end."
The Gaza conflict, which began on October 7 with Hamas militants attacking southern Israel, has resulted in significant casualties and a humanitarian crisis. Israel's retaliatory strikes on Gaza have led to over 39,000 deaths, according to Gazan health authorities, and widespread displacement of the enclave's 2.3 million residents.
The Biden administration has faced criticism from within the Democratic Party for not applying more pressure on Netanyahu to safeguard Palestinian civilians. Trump, too, has called for a swift resolution, commenting on Fox News about the negative publicity Israel is facing.
The Road Ahead
The endorsement from the Obamas is a pivotal moment for Kamala Harris' presidential campaign. As the first Black woman and first Asian American vice president, Harris stands on the brink of making history once again, potentially becoming the nation's first female president. The Democratic Party's unified front, bolstered by the Obamas' support, sets the stage for a fiercely contested election against Trump.
With the election drawing closer, Harris' campaign will likely capitalize on the Obamas' endorsement to galvanize voter support and fortify her position. The upcoming months will be crucial as both Harris and Trump vie for the nation's top office, with the stakes higher than ever for both parties.
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