Washington, D.C. – Contrary to recent media speculation, former President Barack Obama is reportedly offering his full support to Vice President Kamala Harris in her bid for the presidency. According to an NBC News report, Obama has been in frequent contact with Harris since her announcement to run for president, and plans to officially endorse her campaign soon.
Sources close to Obama, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, have confirmed that the former president is backing Harris’s candidacy wholeheartedly. One source noted, “He has been in regular contact with her and thinks she’s been off to a great start.” While many high-profile Democrats have already voiced their support for Harris, Obama has maintained a private stance until now. The timing of his public endorsement remains uncertain.
Obama’s Role Behind the Scenes
Despite his public reticence, Obama has been actively advising Harris on campaign strategies, leveraging his extensive experience from his own successful presidential campaigns. Reports suggest that he sees himself as a crucial resource for Harris as she navigates the complexities of her campaign, which is rapidly approaching the critical final 100 days before Election Day.
Reasons for Obama’s Silence
Several factors may explain Obama’s cautious approach to endorsing Harris publicly. One significant concern is the potential backlash from the GOP, which has criticized the Democrats for what they perceive as an undemocratic selection process. Republican commentator Josh Vance has already labeled the nomination process as “undemocratic.”
Additionally, Obama may be aiming to avoid overshadowing recent announcements by President Joe Biden, including his recent Oval Office address. There is also speculation that Obama and Harris are strategizing to create a major impact with his endorsement, possibly timing it to align with other significant political events.
Support from Michelle Obama and Strategic Involvement
Reports indicate that Michelle Obama also supports Harris’s candidacy. Eric Schultz, a senior adviser to Barack Obama, recently mentioned, “President Obama looks forward to helping Democrats up and down the ballot make the case to voters this fall.” Schultz emphasized that Obama’s involvement will be strategically impactful, focusing on areas where his influence can be most effective.
The Importance of Obama’s Endorsement
Obama’s endorsement is highly anticipated, particularly given that he is one of the few major Democratic figures who has yet to publicly back Harris. Republican critics have labeled Obama’s silence as a “snub,” with some outlets, like the NY Post, suggesting that Obama’s reluctance stems from doubts about Harris’s ability to win the presidency.
Harris has a long-standing relationship with Obama, having supported his 2008 campaign and played a role at the 2012 Democratic National Convention. Obama has also supported Harris in her previous political roles, including her campaigns for California Attorney General and U.S. Senate.
As the campaign season intensifies, the formal endorsement from Barack Obama is expected to be a significant boost for Kamala Harris’s presidential bid.
