In a bid to inject star power into the final stretch of her campaign, Democrat Kamala Harris will be joined by former President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama in separate events next week. The Obamas, whose popularity remains immense within the Democratic base, are expected to be crucial figures in closing the gap and securing a victory for Harris in the upcoming November election.
This strategic move comes as polls indicate a razor-thin margin between Harris and her Republican opponent, Donald Trump. The Obamas are seen as effective closers, particularly in states where the Democratic party relies on strong turnout from loyal supporters to win by slim margins.
Michelle Obama will make her first campaign appearance of the election cycle on Saturday, October 26th, joining Harris in Michigan. Her presence is highly anticipated, especially after her powerful speech at the Democratic National Convention earlier this year, where she accused Trump of using fear mongering tactics to ascend to power.
Meanwhile, Barack Obama will campaign with Harris next Thursday in Georgia. He has been actively traversing battleground states, including a solo event in Pittsburgh on October 11th, with more events planned in Tucson, Las Vegas, Detroit, and Madison.
Obama’s previous campaign appearances have drawn some criticism, particularly after his first appearance where he addressed Black men, urging them to embrace the idea of having a woman as president. Critics argued his tone inadvertently scapegoated some of the Democratic Party’s most reliable supporters, potentially alienating voters who may have grown disillusioned but remained open to persuasion.
It’s worth noting that Harris was an early supporter of Barack Obama’s 2008 presidential bid, and he has been a behind-the-scenes supporter of her campaign as the party’s 2024 standard-bearer. Some speculate that Obama’s influence played a role in encouraging President Joe Biden to step aside after concerns about his age and capabilities emerged during his June debate against Trump.
The Obamas’ involvement in Harris’s campaign signifies their unwavering commitment to the Democratic agenda and their belief in her ability to lead the nation. Their combined influence and charisma are expected to energize voters and potentially sway undecided voters in these crucial final weeks before the election.