Barack Obama, the former President of the United States, spent several hours last Friday at the White House, reconnecting with his former vice president, Joe Biden. However, their meeting was more than just a casual catch-up session.
In recent months, Obama has expressed his belief to associates that Biden’s upcoming rematch with Donald Trump in November will be extremely tight. He sees the 2024 election as a critical moment requiring unified efforts from all quarters, according to sources familiar with his thoughts. Thus, his return to the White House last week was primarily for work purposes.
During his visit, Biden, Obama, and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi participated in an organizing call from the White House residence commemorating the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act. In a video message, Obama emphasized the importance of sending Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris back to the White House in November to continue their work.
Additionally, sources reveal that the campaign recorded other content featuring both presidents, which they plan to release in the coming weeks.
Obama and Biden maintain regular communication, with the former president staying in direct contact with some top White House officials, including Biden’s chief of staff, Jeff Zients, who served in the Obama administration.
Since Biden announced his reelection bid last year, Obama has provided occasional support through public fundraising appeals and private discussions aimed at alleviating concerns among some Democrats about Biden seeking a second term. As the general election approaches, Obama’s involvement with the Biden campaign is expected to increase, with plans for several campaign appearances before November to help reassemble Biden’s winning coalition from 2020.
Obama’s significant support for Biden’s reelection is evident in his participation in a star-studded Manhattan fundraiser on Thursday, alongside Biden and former President Bill Clinton. This rare gathering will see the three presidents engage in a conversation moderated by Stephen Colbert.
The event’s attendees include numerous celebrities and artists, and the campaign is offering some high-dollar contributors the opportunity to have their photographs taken with all three presidents by renowned photographer Annie Leibovitz.
Obama’s popularity and appeal among Democrats have translated into substantial grassroots fundraising efforts for the campaign, with over $15 million raised so far this cycle through fundraising appeals featuring the former president.
Moving forward, Obama will focus on making fundraising appeals and rallying young Americans, especially Black and Latino voters, who are considered crucial for Biden’s candidacy. While he plans to hold off on aggressive campaigning until the fall, Obama’s influence is expected to play a significant role as the election approaches its climax.
Additionally, Obama is vocal about key issues such as Israel’s conflict in Gaza and reproductive rights, which will be central to his message to voters.
Jim Messina, Obama’s former campaign manager, emphasized Obama’s commitment to supporting Biden’s reelection efforts, underscoring the urgency brought about by Trump’s status as the presumptive Republican nominee.
Ultimately, Obama’s dedication to aiding Biden’s campaign has been unwavering, as he remains deeply invested in securing a second term for his former vice president.
