Former US President Barack Obama made a powerful endorsement of Vice President Kamala Harris during the Democratic National Convention (DNC) in Chicago, declaring that the United States is ready for her to take on the presidency. Speaking to an enthusiastic crowd, Obama stated that “the torch has been passed” and praised Harris as a leader who has spent her life fighting for the voiceless.
“Kamala Harris is ready for the job. This is a person who has spent her life fighting for people who need a voice,” Obama said, emphasizing her readiness to serve as president. The crowd echoed his sentiments with chants of “Yes she can,” a nod to Obama’s famous “Yes we can” campaign slogan.
Obama’s endorsement of Harris came amid a buoyant atmosphere at the DNC, where Democratic leaders rallied around Harris as the party’s presidential nominee for the upcoming election. Harris is set to face off against former President Donald Trump, whom Obama described as “dangerous.”
Former First Lady Michelle Obama also spoke at the convention, praising Harris and declaring that “something magically wonderful is in the air.” She described the sense of hope and optimism surrounding Harris’s candidacy, likening it to the energy of her husband’s historic 2008 campaign.
The convention marked a significant moment for the Democratic Party, with Harris polling strongly and the party united behind her. President Joe Biden, who recently ended his bid for reelection and endorsed Harris, delivered an emotional speech, passing the torch to his vice president. Biden, who described serving as president as the “honor of my lifetime,” was celebrated by Obama as an “outstanding president” who had defended democracy during challenging times.
As the DNC unfolded, comparisons were drawn between Harris’s campaign and Obama’s groundbreaking 2008 run, with Democrats expressing confidence in their ability to defeat Trump in the November election. Harris, who addressed delegates via video link from Milwaukee, expressed her gratitude and enthusiasm for the journey ahead.
Meanwhile, Trump has continued his attacks on Harris, falsely accusing her of being “anti-police” and linking her to what he called a “crime wave.” Despite these attacks, Harris has drawn large crowds and energized the Democratic base, underscoring her potential to lead the party to victory.
The DNC’s symbolic nomination of Harris as their candidate sets the stage for a fiercely contested election, with Democrats rallying around her as the leader who can carry forward their vision for the future.
