Washington – Former President Barack Obama has spoken out in support of President Joe Biden after his decision to withdraw from the 2024 presidential race, describing him as “a patriot of the highest order”.
In a statement released by the Office of Barack and Michelle Obama, the former President praised Biden’s decision to put the interests of the American people ahead of his own, saying that it was a testament to his love of country.
“I know Joe has never backed down from a fight,” Obama said. “For him to look at the political landscape and decide that he should pass the torch to a new nominee is surely one of the toughest in his life. But I know he wouldn’t make this decision unless he believed it was right for America.”
Obama did not specifically endorse Vice President Kamala Harris or any other Democrat as the party’s new nominee, instead choosing to express his confidence in the party’s ability to come together behind a unified message.
“We will be navigating uncharted waters in the days ahead,” 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.”
The statement suggests that Obama is taking a similar approach to 2020, when he remained neutral during the primary before endorsing Joe Biden as the party’s nominee.
Obama and Harris have a long-standing relationship, having worked together during his administration. However, Obama has not yet endorsed her as the party’s new nominee, instead opting to focus on unity and ensuring that the party presents a strong message going forward.
