Barack and Michelle Obama have ignited a flurry of speculation with their statement responding to Democrat President Joe Biden ending his re-election campaign.
As Slay News reported, Biden announced Sunday that he has dropped out of the presidential race amid mounting pressure from with the Democratic Party.
In his announcement, Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris to run in his place.
However, Biden’s replacement will be chosen at next month’s Democratic National Convention.
Currently, only Harris is in the running but other Democrats are soon likely to throw their hats into the ring.
Another high-profile Democrat will likely emerge to challenge Harris.
Among those who could step up are Hillary Clinton, Gov Gavin Newsom, or even Michelle Obama, although none have confirmed an intention to bid.
On Sunday, Barack Obama issued a statement that suspiciously lacked an endorsement of Harris, despite Biden naming his VP as his choice.
“We will be navigating uncharted waters in the days ahead,” Barack Obama said. “But I have extraordinary confidence that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding nominee emerges.”
“I believe that Joe Biden’s vision of a generous, prosperous, and united America that provides opportunity for everyone will be on full display at the Democratic Convention in August. And I expect that every single one of us are prepared to carry that message of hope and progress forward into November and beyond.
“For now, Michelle and I just want to express our love and gratitude to Joe and Jill for leading us so ably and courageously during these perilous times – and for their commitment to the ideals of freedom and equality that this country was founded on.”
He added: “Joe Biden has been one of America’s most consequential presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me. Today, we’ve also been reminded – again – that he’s a patriot of the highest order.”
Joe Biden has been one of America’s most consequential presidents, as well as a dear friend and partner to me. Today, we’ve also been reminded – again – that he’s a patriot of the highest order.
Here’s my full statement: https://t.co/Bs2ZumFXxe
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) July 21, 2024
Many are speculating that the lack of endorsement is the strongest signal so far that the Obamas are plotting a major power move.
“Holy Sh**. The Obamas DO NOT endorse Kamala Harris,” said Bill Clinton’s sexual assault accuser Juanita Broaddrick.
“Obama doesn’t endorse Kamala what the hell is going on?” wondered Karli Bonné.
Obama doesn’t endorse Kamala what the hell is going on? pic.twitter.com/9n021VskBl
— Karli Bonne’ 🇺🇸 (@KarluskaP) July 21, 2024
Michelle Obama has previously denied any interest in running for president.
“As former First Lady Michelle Obama has expressed several times over the years, she will not be running for president,” Crystal Carson, director of communications for her office said in March.
“Mrs. Obama supports President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris’ re-election campaign.”
For the Democrats, it makes sense logistically for Harris to replace Biden.
Her campaign is already established and she would be able to take over the war chest from Biden’s fundraising.
Also, launching a new campaign, with a new candidate, would be tough at this late stage.
However, Harris is a weak candidate who would likely get beat by President Donald Trump.
She also performed badly in the 2020 Democrat primary when she last ran for president.
Meanwhile, polls have frequently shown that Michelle Obama would perform better than any other possible Democrat candidate in hyperthetic matchups.
Teaming Michelle Obama with a seasoned politician, such as Hillary Clinton, as a running mate would likely prove to be irresistible to power-hungry Democrats desperate to beat Trump.
