Barack Obama, former US president, and Michelle, his wife, have endorsed Vice-President Kamala Harris’ presidential bid.
“Michelle and I couldn’t be prouder to endorse you and to do everything we can to get you through this election and into the Oval Office,” Obama told Harris on a joint phone call with Michelle.
The US vice-president has already secured the support of a majority of Democratic delegates, setting her on course to become the nominee of the party at the August convention.
“We told her we think she’ll make a fantastic President of the United States, and that she has our full support. 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,” the former president said.
Obama said the call was made “earlier this week” without specifying when.
US President Joe Biden withdrew from the presidential race on Sunday, saying his decision not to seek re-election is in the best interest of the Democratic Party and the country.
Biden nominated Harris to replace him. Obama did not immediately endorse Harris following Biden’s announcement.
“I can’t have this phone call without saying to my girl, Kamala, I am proud of you. This is going to be historic,” Michelle told Harris.
In a joint statement, the Obamas praised the vice-president, saying she has more than a solid resume.
“She has the vision, the character, and the strength that this critical moment demands. There is no doubt in our mind that Kamala Harris has exactly what it takes to win this election and deliver for the American people,” the former first family said.
A day after Biden withdrew from the presidential race, Harris received more than $81 million in donations.
The amount is believed to be the largest 24-hour fundraising in the history of the US presidential campaign.
Harris has promised to do “everything in my power” to unite the Democratic Party and unite the US to defeat Donald Trump and his “extreme Project 2025 agenda”.
