Former President Barack Obama and Vice President Kamala Harris have had multiple conversations this week since she announced her presidential candidacy. Obama is expected to endorse Harris soon and has privately supported her campaign. Obama has offered Harris counsel on setting up a campaign and her overall bid for the White House. Michelle Obama also supports Harris’ candidacy. There is discussion about arranging for the Obamas and Harris to appear together on the campaign trail.
While other high-profile Democrats have endorsed Harris, Obama has not yet made his support public, but is expected to do so in the near future. Obama views himself as a resource and sounding board for Harris as she navigates her campaign, with the goal of unifying the party and moving Democrats forward. Obama didn’t publicly or privately urge Joe Biden to remain in the race after his debate performance in June.
Obama and Harris have a longstanding relationship, with Harris being an early supporter of Obama’s 2008 campaign. Obama views Harris as having a strong start to her campaign with momentum among Democrats. The only public phone call between Obama and Harris took place when Biden endorsed Harris after ending his re-election campaign. Obama’s endorsement of Harris is anticipated to be a significant moment for her campaign.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com