Former President Barack Obama endorsed Kamala Harris’ presidential campaign on Friday, delivering a significant boost as she prepares to challenge Donald Trump in November’s election.
“Earlier this week, Michelle and I called our friend Kamala Harris. We told her we think she’ll make a fantastic President of the United States, and that she has our full support,” Obama announced on social media platform X.
“At this critical moment for our country, we’re going to do everything we can to make sure she wins in November. We hope you’ll join us.”
Obama’s endorsement adds to the momentum behind Harris’ campaign, which has surged since she announced her late entry into the race. This follows President Joe Biden’s endorsement of Harris earlier in the week.
Harris, 59, joined the presidential race amid turmoil surrounding the 81-year-old Biden, whose poor debate performance and persistent low polling led to his withdrawal. As the first woman Vice President, Harris aims to make history again in November.
In recent remarks, Harris launched a strong critique of Trump and his “extremist” Republicans, particularly addressing educators.
“While you teach students about democracy and representative government, extremists attack the sacred freedom to vote,” she said during her speech at the American Federation of Teachers convention in Houston.
“While you try to create safe and welcoming places where our children can learn, extremists attack our freedom to live safe from gun violence.”
Harris’ campaign has stirred notable reactions, including from Trump, who declined to schedule a debate with her, deeming it “inappropriate” until she is officially the Democratic nominee.
Harris responded to Trump’s stance with a challenge on social media, saying, “What happened to ‘any time, any place?’”
Meanwhile, Trump has ramped up his rhetoric, calling Harris a “radical left lunatic” and making claims about her stance on newborn babies. He has also vowed to withhold federal funds from schools with vaccine mandates, which are in place at every public school in the U.S.