Barack Obama’s decision not to endorse Kamala Harris for the 2024 presidential race, following Joe Biden’s withdrawal, has created a stir within the Democratic Party. According to the New York Post, Obama has reservations about Harris’s ability to defeat Donald Trump, which has led to his noticeable silence.
Obama’s concerns are rooted in Harris’s performance as the “border czar,” where she faced criticism for her handling of immigration issues. A source close to the situation stated, “Obama knows she’s just incompetent. She cannot navigate the landmines that are ahead of her.”
Biden’s departure came after a lackluster debate with Trump, reportedly part of a strategy to push him out of the race. Obama had anticipated a different scenario, hoping George Clooney would write an op-ed in the New York Times urging Biden to step aside. Biden’s quick endorsement of Harris threw a wrench in Obama’s plans.
Reports indicate Obama had intended for Arizona Senator Mark Kelly to be the Democratic nominee at the upcoming convention. The failure of this plan has left Obama frustrated and unwilling to support Harris. Some Democrats interpret Obama’s stance as a reflection of his own political interests, with one party insider noting, “Obama always thinks he is the smartest and coolest guy in the room.”
As the Democratic Party coalesces around Harris, Obama’s silence could signal deeper divisions. His influential voice remains missing, raising questions about the party’s unity and strategy moving forward. The party must address these issues to present a strong front against Trump in the upcoming election.