Former President Barack Obama took the stage at the Democratic National Convention to express his strong support for Kamala Harris, declaring his optimism about her readiness to lead the White House. Obama urged Americans to vote for Harris, with the crowd responding with chants of “yes, she can.”
Obama Reflects on Harris’s Tenure as Attorney General
Obama highlighted Harris’s assertive role as California’s Attorney General, noting how she challenged his administration to deliver for Californians. “As Attorney General of the most populous state, she took on big banks and for-profit colleges,” Obama stated. He praised her efforts to secure a significant settlement for homeowners affected by the mortgage crisis. “It didn’t matter that I was a Democrat. It didn’t matter that she had supported my campaign. She was committed to fighting for as much relief as possible for deserving families.”
Praise for Tim Walz
Obama also commended Tim Walz, Harris’s running mate, calling him an “outstanding partner” for Harris in the White House. He described Walz as someone with genuine values, saying, “I love this guy. Tim is the kind of person who should be in politics. Born in a small town, served his country, taught kids, coached football, took care of his neighbors — he knows who he is and what’s important.” Obama noted Walz’s authenticity, adding, “You can tell those flannel shirts he wears don’t come from some political consultant. They come from his closet and have been through some stuff.”
Harris and Biden Acknowledged
According to CNN, a campaign official confirmed that Kamala Harris watched parts of Barack and Michelle Obama’s speeches while traveling back to Chicago from a campaign rally in Milwaukee. Obama also praised President Joe Biden, saying, “I am proud to call him my president, but I am even prouder to call him my friend.”
A Call to Action
Obama concluded his speech by declaring that “the torch has been passed” to Harris as the new leader of the Democratic Party. “The torch has been passed,” he emphasized. “Now it is up to all of us to fight for the America we believe in — and make no mistake — it will be a fight.”
He encouraged everyone to contribute to the campaign efforts, stating, “If we each do our part within the next 77 days — if we knock on doors, make phone calls, talk to friends, listen to neighbors, work like never before, and hold firm to our convictions — we will elect Kamala Harris as the next president of the United States and Tim Walz as the next vice president of the United States.”
Obama concluded with a call to action: “Together, we will build a country that is more secure and just, more equal and free. So let’s get to work.”