Vice President Kamala Harris held a rally near Atlanta on Thursday night, featuring remarks from former President Barack Obama and a performance by rock icon Bruce Springsteen. It marked the first time Harris and Obama shared the stage during this election cycle as Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee, makes her final appeal to voters ahead of Election Day.
After an enthusiastic introduction by Obama, Harris recalled her initial support for him during his 2008 presidential campaign. “It was over 17 years ago when I took a trip to Springfield, Illinois… to support this brilliant young senator who was running for president,” she said, highlighting how Obama inspired millions with his message of unity.
Harris expressed deep gratitude to Obama for his friendship and support, noting its significance to their campaign.
According to a senior campaign official, the strategy of pairing Harris with Obama is aimed at boosting voter enthusiasm, capitalizing on Obama’s lasting popularity. He is the only president since Ronald Reagan to win two terms with over 50% of the vote.
Obama has also been actively campaigning for Harris’s running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, including a recent event in Madison, Wisconsin. He plans to engage with various media personalities popular among Black audiences in the coming days.
Former First Lady Michelle Obama is expected to join Harris for a campaign event in Michigan on Saturday, marking her first campaign appearance this cycle.
Springsteen, who recently endorsed Harris, was among the notable figures at the rally, which also featured filmmaker Spike Lee and actor Samuel L. Jackson. Additionally, Harris is set to welcome pop star Beyoncé at an event in Houston on Friday evening.