By Smartencyclopedia & Agencies
Washington, D.C. — In a move that electrifies the Democratic primary race, former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have endorsed Vice-President Kamala Harris for the Democratic presidential nomination. Their endorsement ends days of speculation and solidifies Harris’s front-runner status.
The Obamas released a joint statement on Friday, declaring, “We believe Kamala has the vision, the character, and the strength that this critical moment demands.” This announcement comes after President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the race last Sunday.
Kamala Harris has already garnered the support of a majority of Democratic delegates, positioning her as the likely nominee at the party convention in August. The Obamas’ endorsement is expected to boost her campaign further.
The statement from the Obamas praised Harris’s extensive political experience, citing her roles as California’s attorney general, a US senator, and vice president. “Choosing Kamala was one of the best decisions he’s made. She has the resume to prove it,” they said, echoing President Biden’s sentiment.
In an accompanying video, Harris takes a phone call from the Obamas, expressing her gratitude. “Oh my goodness,” she said. “Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me.”
Since Biden’s exit from the race, Harris has been active on the campaign trail, addressing various groups and outlining her vision for the future. On Thursday, she spoke at the American Federation of Teachers union in Houston, where she received enthusiastic support. During her speech, she criticized “extremist” Republicans and their “failed” policies, emphasizing her commitment to banning assault weapons and contrasting it with Republican efforts to ban books.
Meanwhile, former President Donald Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, has ramped up his attacks on Harris. In a post on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump called Harris a “radical left Marxist” and suggested Democrats might still be considering other candidates.
Trump has also declined to commit to a televised debate with Harris until she is officially confirmed as the Democratic nominee. He speculated that Democrats were “still holding out for someone ‘better’.”
In international affairs, Harris recently held talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging an end to the Israel-Gaza war. She expressed concerns about civilian casualties in Gaza and stressed the importance of a two-state solution.
As Harris continues her campaign, the Obamas have pledged their full support. “We could not be more thrilled to endorse Kamala Harris,” they said. “We will do everything we can to elect her.”
Harris’s nomination now seems all but certain, and her campaign is expected to gain further momentum with Obamas’ endorsement. As the Democratic convention approaches, all eyes will be on Harris as she seeks to become the first female president of the United States.