WHITE HOUSE: In a major political endorsement, former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama have officially backed Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic presidential nominee. Their endorsement ends weeks of speculation about whether the Obamas would support Harris following President Joe Biden's recent withdrawal from the race.

The Obamas expressed strong support for Harris in a joint statement, emphasizing her vision, character, and strength. They highlighted Harris’s impressive track record as California’s Attorney General, a U.S. Senator, and Vice President as key qualifications for the presidency.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to endorse Kamala Harris,” said the Obamas. “We agree with President Biden that choosing Kamala was one of his best decisions. She has the resume to prove it and the vision, character, and strength needed at this critical moment.”

The endorsement came alongside a video where Harris, visibly emotional, thanked the Obamas for their support. She described the endorsement as deeply meaningful, saying, “Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me.”

Since Biden's withdrawal, Harris has been active on the campaign trail. She recently spoke at an American Federation of Teachers event in Houston, where her address took on a campaign-like atmosphere, with enthusiastic applause from the audience. Harris criticized “extremist” Republicans and their policies, contrasting them with her own goals, such as banning assault weapons.

On the other side, Republican nominee Donald Trump has begun attacking Harris, labeling her as a “radical left Marxist” in a post on his social media platform, Truth Social. Trump has also hesitated to agree to a debate with Harris until she is formally confirmed as the Democratic nominee, suggesting that Democrats might still seek a different candidate.

In international matters, Harris has engaged in “frank and constructive” discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging an end to the Israel-Gaza conflict. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with over 39,000 reported deaths in Gaza since last October’s escalation.

Harris expressed serious concerns about the humanitarian impact of the conflict and reiterated the need for a two-state solution. Meanwhile, Netanyahu has met with President Biden and will also meet Trump later this week.

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