Former President Barack Obama and former President Bill Clinton, along with their spouses, Michelle Obama and Hillary Clinton, are stepping up their involvement in Vice President Kamala Harris' election campaign.
NBC News reported that as the race enters its final stretch, these prominent Democratic figures are offering their support to energize voter turnout and engage key demographics. Their involvement is aimed at boosting Harris’ visibility in pivotal battleground states.
The participation of the Obamas and Clintons marks a significant moment in the closing weeks of Harris' campaign as they rally to help her secure victory in the election.
Barack Obama is returning to the campaign trail after an invigorating appearance at the Democratic National Convention (DNC).
He is slated to headline a major fundraiser in Los Angeles next Friday, with larger public campaign events planned in the following weeks. His efforts are part of a broader push that will include appearances in fundraising materials, ads for down-ballot Democratic candidates, and robocalls to voters in key states.
Eric Schultz, a senior advisor to Obama, explained that the former president’s strategy will focus on appealing to Democrats and persuadable voters.
Obama is expected to work with content creators and influencers to engage younger audiences and drive them to IWillVote.com, a platform designed to boost voter registration and turnout.
Meanwhile, Michelle Obama, who is also taking an active role, is concentrating on encouraging voter registration and ensuring that people show up at the polls.
She has been particularly energized by Harris' candidacy, having voiced her support during a speech at the DNC in Chicago. Michelle urged Democrats not just to support Harris but to take action to help her win.
While specific campaign strategies for both Obamas are still being finalized, their involvement is seen as a major boost for Harris. A former senior Obama advisor remarked that the couple is “energized by Harris’ candidacy” and eager to assist in any way possible during the campaign’s final days.
The Clintons are also key figures in Harris’ campaign. Bill Clinton is expected to target rural areas such as the Rust Belt and Georgia, where he is considered well-positioned to appeal to both rural voters and Latino communities.
Known for his persuasive abilities, Clinton is likely to emphasize economic issues, which he successfully did during the 2012 election as the so-called "explainer-in-chief." Clinton is set to begin campaigning in earnest for Harris in October.
His efforts are seen as especially crucial in regions where economic concerns dominate voter priorities. One source close to Clinton likened his eagerness to hit the campaign trail to a "Dalmatian at a firehouse," signaling his high energy and commitment to the cause.
Hillary Clinton, a strong advocate for reproductive rights, will focus on engaging women and LGBTQ voters.
She is expected to discuss reproductive freedom and related issues in her appearances, particularly aiming to resonate with suburban women—a key demographic in this election. Although the specific dates of her campaign events are still under discussion, she will also help raise funds for the Harris campaign while continuing her book tour.
Clinton has a luncheon with donors scheduled for next Friday, underscoring her dual role in campaign and fundraising activities.
In addition to her public appearances, Hillary Clinton has been offering advice and strategy to Harris. Notably, she provided Harris with guidance ahead of her debate with former President Donald Trump, demonstrating the collaborative efforts between these high-profile figures.
While the focus has shifted to Harris in the final weeks, President Joe Biden continues to play a pivotal role in supporting his vice president.
Biden is traveling to battleground states, including a planned trip to Philadelphia on Monday, where he will highlight the achievements of the Biden-Harris administration. His efforts are primarily geared toward securing the support of older white voters, a demographic in which his approval ratings remain strong.
First lady Jill Biden is also expected to campaign for Harris, with a focus on education—a key issue that resonates with many voters. Biden’s surrogates, including Democratic governors like Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania and Gavin Newsom of California, are also contributing to the campaign’s final push.
The Harris campaign is working with a broad network of celebrity backers and digital surrogates to help amplify its message.
Instead of large in-person rallies, the campaign is relying on online influencers and celebrity supporters to engage voters digitally, particularly in light of ongoing public health concerns. This approach allows the campaign to maintain a significant presence without the risks associated with physical gatherings.
The Obamas and Clintons have been in regular contact with Harris as her campaign ramps up.
Their involvement, particularly in the closing weeks of the race, is seen as a critical factor in driving voter enthusiasm and ensuring strong turnout in key states.
