Barack Obama addressed fellow Democrats in Chicago on Tuesday, declaring that “the torch has been passed” to Kamala Harris and expressing confidence that the United States is ready for her leadership. Speaking at a packed convention arena, Obama received enthusiastic applause as he praised Harris and criticized her November rival, Donald Trump, calling him “dangerous.”
Obama emphasized Harris’s readiness for the presidency, highlighting her lifelong dedication to fighting for those who need a voice. “Kamala Harris is prepared for the job. She’s someone who sees and hears you, and will fight for you every single day,” Obama stated.
His endorsement was met with chants of “Yes she can,” echoing the spirit of his own “Yes we can” campaign slogan.
Michelle Obama also contributed to the uplifting atmosphere, telling convention attendees that “something magically wonderful is in the air.” She described Harris as “my girl” and spoke about the return of hope, a key theme of her husband’s 2008 campaign.
The mood in Chicago was further boosted by President Joe Biden’s emotional speech on Monday, delivered just weeks after he ended his reelection bid.
Mae Beale, a delegate from Maryland, expressed her connection with the speeches, saying, “They were so real… I could identify with everything they were saying.”
Doug Emhoff, Second Gentleman and Kamala Harris’s husband, highlighted Harris’s readiness and strengths, stating, “She brings both joy and toughness to this task,” and adding, “At this moment in our nation’s history, she is exactly the right president.”
With Harris polling strongly and the party unified, Democrats are confident in their ability to defeat Trump. This optimism follows Biden’s decision to step back from the race and endorse Harris.
Delegates at the convention symbolically nominated Harris as their candidate, echoing the excitement of Obama’s 2008 campaign. Harris, who had already captivated Chicago with her debut appearance, moved on to Milwaukee for an event at the basketball arena where Trump had recently spoken.
Trump, seeking to divert media attention from the Democratic convention, criticized Harris’s stance on policing during his own events. In Howell, Michigan, he attacked what he described as the “Kamala crime wave,” falsely claiming a dramatic increase in violent crime.
Despite calls from allies for Trump to focus on policies rather than personal attacks, he continued his criticism of Harris.
Meanwhile, Biden delivered a heartfelt farewell speech, framing his decision to step aside as a sacrifice for the country. “It’s been the honor of my lifetime to serve as your president. I love the job, but I love my country more,” Biden said, wiping away a tear as he embraced Harris on stage.
Obama praised Biden as an “outstanding president” who “defended democracy at a moment of great danger.”
