Barack and Michelle Obama Endorse Kamala Harris for President: ‘It Will Be Historic’ – Essence

In a departure from traditional political endorsements, former President Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris in a 55-second video released by the Harris campaign on Friday. The clip, which captures a candid phone conversation between the Obamas and Harris, marks a major moment within the 2024 presidential race.

The video begins with Harris standing backstage on the event, preparing to go away for her motorcade. She answers the decision on speaker, warmly greeted by Michelle Obama, who says, “I can’t have this phone call without telling my girl Kamala, ‘I’m proud of you. This is going to be historic.’”

Obama continues, saying, “Michelle and I couldn’t be more proud to support you and do everything we can to get you through this election and into the Oval Office.” Harris, visibly moved, replies, “Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me…. We’re going to have so much fun doing this.”

The endorsement, coming days after President Joe Biden announced on July 21 that he was dropping out of the presidential race, dispelled any doubts in regards to the support for Harris from a few of the Democratic Party’s most influential figures.

Speculation about Obama’s endorsement got here after endorsements from other Democratic figures and the rapid growth of Harris’ campaign. But all those questions can now be put to rest.

Harris’ campaign has already seen a major boost since Biden’s withdrawal, raising $81 million in the primary 24 hours, with 500,000 recent donors. Polls also show Harris closing the gap on former President Donald Trump, losing only one point in the most recent New York Times average.