Former President Barack Obama and Vice President Kamala Harris have been in close communication since Harris announced her presidential run on Sunday, as reported by NBC News. Obama has now made a decision on whether to endorse Harris.
According to NBC, citing four unnamed sources, Obama has privately expressed full support for Harris’s candidacy and is expected to endorse her soon. One source mentioned, “He has been in regular contact with her and thinks she’s been off to a great start.”
While several prominent Democrats have already backed Harris, Obama has kept his endorsement private. The timing of his public endorsement remains uncertain. Despite this, Obama is reportedly advising Harris on campaign strategies, leveraging his own successful presidential campaign experience. He views himself as a valuable resource as Harris approaches Election Day with only about 100 days left.
Reasons for Obama’s silence on endorsing Harris include concerns that the GOP might view her sudden entry into the race as undemocratic. Additionally, Obama may not want to overshadow President Joe Biden’s recent announcements or prefers to time his endorsement to maximize impact. There are also reports suggesting Obama and Harris might aim to create a significant moment with his endorsement, distinct from other political events.
Michelle Obama is also reportedly supportive of Harris’s candidacy. Eric Schultz, a senior adviser to Obama, noted, “President Obama looks forward to helping Democrats up and down the ballot make the case to voters this fall.” Schultz added that Obama’s involvement will be strategically impactful where his influence can be most effective.
Obama’s endorsement is seen as crucial for Harris, especially since his silence has been interpreted as a ‘snub’ by some Republicans. The NY Post even suggested, “Obama’s very upset because he knows she can’t win,” according to a Biden family source. Harris is keen to secure Obama’s support, given their past connections. She was an early supporter of his 2008 campaign and spoke at the 2012 Democratic National Convention. Obama has previously supported Harris in her campaigns for California Attorney General and U.S. Senate in 2016.
