The Impact of Obama Endorsing Kamala Harris in the 2020 Democratic Primary
Kamala Harris, a prominent figure in the 2020 Democratic race, has seen a surge in support with various endorsements and monumental fundraising efforts. However, the impact of former President Barack Obama endorsing Kamala Harris has been a topic of speculation and debate. This article explores how Obama's endorsement would affect the 2020 Democratic primary race, including its potential benefits and drawbacks.
Support for Kamala Harris
Amidst the excitement surrounding Kamala Harris, many observers note that Democrats have shown significant enthusiasm for her candidacy. Post-Biden's withdrawal, there was a rapid surge in voter registration, with 58,000 new individuals registering to vote within 24 hours. The fundraising efforts also saw a significant boost, with an unprecedented $106 million raised in just one day, primarily from small donors. Furthermore, the Democratic Party leadership seemingly acquiesced to grassroots demands, leading to a unanimous support for Harris among the elected delegates. This support has been reflected in various polls, with 86% of Democrats expressing strong support for her and 62% of voters under 35 showing favor.
Obama’s Endorsement
Given the current high levels of support for Kamala Harris, it is unsurprising that Obama would consider endorsing her. Obama’s endorsement can only enhance her chances, as it is a recognized and influential voice within the party. However, it’s worth noting that Donald Trump may criticize this as biased or influenced by Obama's personal support, highlighting the partisan nature of political endorsements. Nonetheless, Trump's criticism would come from a limited and often divisive source.
Potential Impact on the Race
The endorsement of Kamala Harris by Obama is unlikely to significantly alter the course of the 2020 Democratic primary. Given the existing levels of support and enthusiasm, any additional endorsement, though helpful, would not be decisive. The energy and support are already aligned with Kamala Harris, and the primary race is expected to continue with her leading the pack.
Conclusion
The endorsement by Obama can only be seen as beneficial for Kamala Harris, further solidifying her standing within the party. The 2020 Democratic primary race is shaped by various factors, including grassroots enthusiasm, fundraising efforts, and endorsements. While Obama's endorsement is significant, it is unlikely to change the overall landscape of the race. Nevertheless, it provides an additional boost to her candidacy and affirming the strong support for Kamala Harris among Democrats.