Former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris for the Democratic presidential nomination, praising her “vision, character, and strength” in a joint statement.
“We could not be more thrilled to endorse Kamala Harris,” the Obamas said. “We agree with President Biden, choosing Kamala was one of the best decisions he’s made. She has the resume to prove it… But Kamala has more than a resume. She has the vision, the character, and the strength that this critical moment demands.”
The endorsement comes after President Joe Biden announced he would not seek re-election, and Harris has already secured the support of a majority of Democratic delegates.
In a video accompanying the statement, Harris is seen taking a phone call from the Obamas, saying “Oh my goodness, Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me.”
Harris has been campaigning across the US, taking aim at “extremist” Republicans and “failed” policies. She has also spoken with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging an end to the Israel-Gaza war and stressing the need for a two-state solution.
Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump has already begun attacking Harris, calling her a “radical left Marxist” and refusing to commit to a televised debate until she is officially confirmed as the Democratic nominee.