Barack and Michelle Obama have finally endorsed Kamala Harris to succeed Joe Biden. The Vice President posted what is supposed to be a spontaneous call – which just happened to be filmed professionally – with the Democratic power couple on social media. As recently as Wednesday, Biden family sources said former President Obama was avoiding endorsing Harris because he believed she would lose to Donald Trump.
“Obama knows she’s just incompetent—the border czar who never visited the border, saying that all migrants should have health insurance. She cannot navigate the landmines that are ahead of her,” the source said.
In a new video showcasing the late endorsement, Harris powerwalks around while taking a call, with Obama shouting “Kamala!” on speakerphone.
“Hello? Hi!” the Vice President responds, feigning surprise.
“Hey there!” cuts in Mrs. Obama.
“Aw, hi, you’re both together! Oh, it’s good to hear you both,” Harris replies.
The former president and first lady tell Harris, who turns 60 in October, they are “proud” of her. Mrs. Obama—often touted as a Democratic presidential candidate herself—calls Harris “my girl” and says, “This is going to be historic.”
Previously, reports indicated former President Obama did not want to endorse a replacement for Biden, preferring to present himself as an “impartial elder statesman.”
As mentioned above, Biden family sources said Biden was “furious,” “shocked,” and “very upset” to see Harris rapidly fall into place as the presumptive Democratic nominee following Biden’s ouster. He reportedly wanted Arizona Senator Mark Kelly “at the top of the ticket.”
Relations between Biden and his former boss—who did not endorse his own 2020 primary run—are strained, with Biden believing Obama helped orchestrate the coup against him.
WATCH:
It means so much to have your endorsements, @MichelleObama and @BarackObama.
Let’s get to work. pic.twitter.com/rAuTyIlCai
— Kamala Harris (@KamalaHarris) July 26, 2024