Barack Obama has notably refrained from endorsing Kamala Harris for the 2024 presidential race, despite Joe Biden’s endorsement following his abrupt exit. Obama’s reluctance has sparked speculation, with sources suggesting he doubts Harris’s capability to challenge Donald Trump effectively. According to the New York Post, Obama believes Harris is not equipped to handle the complexities of a presidential campaign.
Obama’s concerns focus on Harris’s performance and public statements during her tenure as “border czar,” where she was criticized for her handling of immigration issues. A source close to Obama stated, “Obama knows she’s just incompetent. She cannot navigate the landmines that are ahead of her.”
Biden’s departure from the race followed a disastrous debate performance against Trump, which insiders describe as a planned effort to remove him from the race. Obama, however, had a different strategy involving George Clooney writing a New York Times op-ed encouraging Biden to step down. This plan did not foresee Biden’s quick endorsement of Harris, leaving Obama’s strategy in disarray.
Reports indicate Obama had hoped to see Arizona Senator Mark Kelly emerge as the Democratic nominee at the upcoming Democratic National Convention. The failure of this plan has reportedly left Obama frustrated, contributing to his silence on Harris’s candidacy. Some Democrats interpret Obama’s stance as reflective of his personal political interests, with one insider noting, “Obama always thinks he is the smartest and coolest guy in the room.”
As the Democratic Party consolidates around Harris, Obama’s lack of support could signal deeper divisions and challenges in uniting the party for the upcoming election. The coming months will reveal whether the Democrats can present a united front with Harris at the helm.
