As the Democratic National Convention unfolds in Chicago, former President Barack Obama is poised to deliver a significant endorsement for Vice President Kamala Harris in her presidential campaign. The event, taking place at the United Center, the largest arena by capacity in the United States, marks a crucial moment in the lead-up to the November 2024 election.
Obama, who served as the 44th President from 2009 to 2017, remains a highly influential figure within the Democratic Party. His endorsement comes at a critical juncture, with just 11 weeks remaining until the election. The former president's continued popularity among Democrats surpasses that of both Harris and the current administration, according to recent opinion polls.
Harris, who made history in 2021 as the first woman, first African American, and first Asian American Vice President, faces a challenging campaign against Republican candidate Donald Trump. The race is expected to be closely contested in several key battleground states, including Florida, Iowa, and Ohio, which Obama carried in his 2008 and 2012 victories but are now considered more difficult for Democrats to win.
The Harris campaign has been focusing on maintaining a positive atmosphere following President Joe Biden's decision to step aside. However, it has faced criticism for lacking specific policy proposals. In response, Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, are planning a campaign rally in Milwaukee, the largest city in Wisconsin, to address these concerns and connect with voters.
Meanwhile, Trump has intensified his attacks on Harris, accusing her of presiding over a "crime wave" despite statistics from the Major Cities Chiefs Association indicating a steady decline in violent crime since January 2021. Trump's campaign rhetoric has raised concerns about potential racial tensions, particularly following a white supremacist rally in a small town last month.
Former First Lady Michelle Obama is also scheduled to speak at the convention, emphasizing the need for national unity and moving beyond fear and division. Her enduring popularity, with a 55% favorable rating among Americans according to a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll, could provide additional support to the Harris campaign.
As the convention progresses, Democrats are rallying around Harris, with Obama expected to outline strategies for victory while cautioning about the challenges ahead. The former president's involvement underscores the party's "all-hands-on-deck" approach to the upcoming election.
"President Obama believes this is an all-hands-on-deck moment, and is committed to doing all he can to elect Vice President Harris and Democrats across the country."
The Democratic National Convention, a quadrennial event for presidential nominations, serves as a platform for the party to present its vision for the future. As Harris prepares to accept the nomination, the support from prominent figures like Obama and Michelle Obama could play a crucial role in energizing the Democratic base and appealing to undecided voters in the months leading up to the November election.