In a highly anticipated move, former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have officially endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic party’s nominee for president.
The endorsement was delivered via a video call released on Friday, marking a significant moment in the race.
Harris, who has garnered numerous endorsements since President Joe Biden withdrew from the race following a poor debate performance, finally received the support of the last prominent Democrat yet to weigh in.
In the video, the Obamas are seen calling Harris to offer their endorsement.
“Aw. Hi, you’re both together! Oh, it’s good to hear you both,” says Harris, dressed in a beige suit and wearing a gold link chain.
“I can’t have this phone call without saying to my girl Kamala: I am proud of you. This is going to be historic,” says Michelle Obama. Barack Obama adds, “We called to say, Michelle and I couldn’t be prouder to endorse you and do everything we can to get you through this election and into the Oval Office.”
The Obamas made history 16 years ago when Barack Obama became the first person of color elected president of the United States. If elected, Harris, who is Black and Asian Indian, would be the first woman to be elected president.
After Biden’s exit from the race, Harris quickly secured enough Democratic National Committee delegates to become the presumptive Democratic nominee and united the party’s establishment behind her campaign.
Obama commended Biden for his decision to step aside, stating on social media, “Joe Biden has stayed true to these words again and again over a lifetime of service to the American people.”
As of Wednesday, Harris had raised $126 million in campaign contributions, according to her campaign.
