In a video released on Tuesday, former US President Barack Obama endorsed presumptive Democratic nominee Joe Biden, his former vice president, that marked his return to the political stage as the nation grapples with the coronavirus pandemic. Obama remained neutral throughout the Democratic primary, only endorsing Biden after other candidates left the race. His video came out a day following Sanders’s, former presidential candidate as well, who now also showed his support to Biden. Obama praised Sanders for setting a new agenda for the party and signaled that more progressive ideas would be reflected in Biden’s campaign moving forward. He also mentioned Senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts, a former presidential candidate who left the race, and her call for “big structural change”. “To meet the moment, the Democratic Party will have to be bold,” Obama said. “I could not be prouder of the incredible progress that we made together during my presidency. But if I were running today, I wouldn’t run the same race or have the same platform as I did in 2008. The world is different. There’s too much unfinished business for us to just look backwards. We have to look to the future,” he added. Obama emphasized Biden's role in the recovery from recession in the late 2000s, his efforts in combating past outbreaks during their administration, and his work in furthering Obama's foreign policy agenda.
"Choosing Joe to be my Vice President was one of the best decisions I ever made, and he became a close friend," Obama said. "And I believe Joe has all the qualities we need in a president right now. He’s someone whose own life has taught him how to persevere; how to bounce back when you’ve been knocked down." Obama ended his speech with well wishes for all affected of the coronavirus. “Michelle and I hope that you and your families are safe and well,” he said.
“If you’ve lost somebody to this virus, or if someone in your life is sick, or if you’re one of the millions suffering economic hardship, please know that you’re in our prayers. Please know that you’re not alone. Because now is the time for all of us to help where we can, to be there for each other as neighbors, as co-workers, and as fellow citizens.”
Comments