Following US President Joe Biden’s decision to withdraw from the 2024 race, he quickly threw his support behind Vice President Kamala Harris. The decision purportedly caught former officeholder Barack Obama off guard, but he eventually endorsed Harris, despite rumors of his reluctance.
A source close to the Biden family claimed that his decision to back Harris so soon after ending his own campaign blindsided Obama. The source said that Obama did not believe in Harris’ ability to beat Republican nominee Donald Trump in November.
Obama considers Harris “incompetent,” according to the source. The source also said that Harris would prove her ineptitude during a potential debate with Trump by saying something “really stupid.”
Nevertheless, Obama and his wife Michelle both chose to endorse Harris in the wake of the rumors about their hesitation. Obama said that they are proud to support Harris and do everything they can to get her elected president.
The endorsement comes despite the source claiming that Obama was “furious” about Biden’s decision to back Harris. However, a separate Democratic source dismissed the matter as Obama feeling personally slighted by the move. Obama is unable to see beyond his own immediate interests, the source said.
Although Harris has not officially secured the Democratic Party’s nomination, she is on track to do so in August. Harris will also have to select a running mate, prompting speculation about potential picks.
Harris could be eyeing fellow Democrats like Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear, North Carolina Governor Roy Cooper, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, or Arizona Senator Mark Kelly. Although the aforementioned candidates are considered likely choices, the field of potential running mates is wide.
Harris could also choose figures like Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg, Illinois Governor JB Pritzker, Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer, or Minnesota Governor Tim Walz. Presidential candidates typically pick a running mate from a competitive “swing” state in an effort to secure votes there.
Although Harris is still a long way from the presidency, Obama’s endorsement and a good running mate could help propel her forward in a race against Trump.
