OBAMA PRAISES BIDEN’S PUBLIC SERVICE, DOES NOT ENDORSE KAMALA HARRIS AS SUCCESSOR

Former President Barack Obama praised Vice President Joe Biden’s long career in public service on Sunday but did not endorse Kamala Harris as the Democratic Party’s presidential candidate. This follows President Biden’s announcement that he would not seek reelection and his endorsement of Harris as his successor.

In a 549-word statement posted on Medium, Obama lauded Biden, who was his running mate in the 2008 and 2012 elections, for his decades of dedication to public service. Obama expressed admiration for Biden’s character, empathy, resilience, and fundamental decency, and his belief that "everyone counts."

“We will be navigating uncharted waters in the days ahead. However, I am very confident that the leaders of our party will be able to create a process from which an outstanding candidate will emerge,” Obama wrote. He expressed confidence that Biden’s vision of a "generous, prosperous, and united America" will be clearly displayed at the Democratic Convention in August.

Obama concluded his statement by expressing gratitude to Joe and Jill Biden for their leadership and commitment to the ideals of freedom and equality. “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,” he said.

The Democratic National Convention is scheduled to take place from August 19-22 in Chicago, Illinois.

Responding to Obama’s statement, Kamala Harris acknowledged the honor of Biden’s endorsement and stated her intention to earn and secure the nomination. She emphasized her commitment to uniting the Democratic Party and defeating Donald Trump’s "extreme Project 2025 agenda." Harris also expressed gratitude to Biden for his leadership and service.

Meanwhile, Trump and his running mate, Sen. J.D. Vance, have distanced themselves from The Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, which is intended as a guide for a conservative administration. Vance noted that while Trump may have preferences regarding the 900-page document, he will ultimately determine the next administration’s agenda.

Prominent Democrats who have endorsed Harris include former President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of State and First Lady Hillary Clinton, and several Senators and Representatives. However, some key figures, such as former Speaker Nancy Pelosi, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, have yet to endorse Harris as the party’s presidential candidate.

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