Chicago: In a powerful moment at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago on August 20, former President Barack Obama officially endorsed Kamala Harris as the “next President of the United States,” signaling a pivotal shift in the 2024 presidential race. Drawing from his iconic 2008 campaign slogan, Obama declared, “Yes she can,” to a roaring crowd that echoed the phrase in unison, energizing the party faithful.
Obama’s Full-Throated Endorsement: A Historic Moment
Addressing an electrified audience, Obama emphasized that America is “ready” for Kamala Harris to take on the presidency. “Kamala Harris is ready for the job,” Obama proclaimed, highlighting her lifelong commitment to championing the rights of those in need. “The next President of the US is Kamala Harris,” he continued, receiving thunderous applause and cheers from the convention attendees.
Obama didn’t hold back in his critique of Republican candidate Donald Trump, calling him “dangerous” and affirming that “the torch has been passed” to a leader who will fight for all Americans. “Kamala Harris is someone who sees you, hears you, and will get up every single day to fight for you,” Obama asserted, positioning Harris as the leader the country needs at this critical juncture.
Reflecting on His Legacy and Biden’s Presidency
Obama took a moment to reflect on his journey, noting that it has been 16 years since he accepted the Democratic Party’s nomination for president. He paid tribute to President Joe Biden, his former vice president, and long-time ally, stating, “History will remember Joe Biden as an outstanding president who defended democracy at a moment of great danger. I am proud to call him my president and even prouder to call him my friend.”
Obama reminisced about his decision to choose Biden as his running mate, calling it “one of his best decisions” as the party’s nominee. He expressed his deep admiration for Biden’s leadership, reinforcing the Democratic Party’s unity and shared purpose in the face of challenges.
Michelle Obama and the Power of Hope
Before Obama’s rousing endorsement, former First Lady Michelle Obama took the stage, setting the tone for the evening with her message of optimism. “Something magically wonderful is in the air,” she said, referencing the “contagious power of hope,” a key theme from her husband’s successful 2008 campaign. Michelle Obama, who referred to Harris as “my girl,” underscored the resurgence of hope as a rallying cry for the Democratic Party.
Kamala Harris: The Democratic Party’s Standard-Bearer
Kamala Harris, who was officially nominated as the Democratic candidate during a symbolic roll call, made her debut appearance in Chicago, where she was met with an overwhelmingly positive reception. Addressing delegates via video link from Milwaukee, where she was attending an event at the same arena that hosted Trump’s Republican convention a month earlier, Harris thanked the delegates and the Democratic Party for their support. “Thank you… see you in two days, Chicago,” she said, drawing massive cheers from both venues.
The choice of Milwaukee’s 18,000-seat arena for Harris’s event was seen as a strategic move to contrast her ability to draw large crowds, a hallmark of Trump’s campaign rallies. Her simultaneous address to both the Democratic National Convention and the Republican convention venue underscored her growing momentum as a candidate capable of uniting and inspiring a broad base of supporters.
As the 2024 election approaches, the Democratic Party, buoyed by Obama’s endorsement and Harris’s strong polling numbers, is confident in its ability to challenge Donald Trump and reclaim the White House. The comparisons to Obama’s historic 2008 campaign are already being drawn, with many Democrats believing that Harris has the potential to lead the party to a decisive victory in November.
