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BBC: <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Barack Obama has endorsed Vice-President Kamala Harris to be the Democratic presidential nominee, ending days of speculation over whether he would support her.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Former President Obama and ex-First Lady Michelle Obama said in a joint statement that they believe Ms Harris has the “vision, the character, and the strength that this critical moment demands”.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Mr Obama was reportedly among more than 100 prominent Democrats Ms Harris spoke to after President Joe Biden announced last Sunday he was dropping out of the race.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In a statement at the time, Mr Obama praised Mr Biden’s exit, but stopped short of endorsing Ms Harris.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The US vice-president has already secured the support of a majority of Democratic delegates, setting her on course to become the official nominee at the party convention in August.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Obamas said in Friday’s statement that they could not be “more thrilled to endorse” Ms Harris. They vowed to do “everything we can” to elect her.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“We agree with President Biden,” said the couple’s statement, “choosing Kamala was one of the best decisions he\u2019s made. She has the resume to prove it.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
They cited her record as California\u2019s attorney general, a US senator and then vice-president.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“But Kamala has more than a resume,” the statement continued. “She has the vision, the character, and the strength that this critical moment demands.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“There is no doubt in our mind that Kamala Harris has exactly what it takes to win this election and deliver for the American people.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“At a time when the stakes have never been higher, she gives us all reason to hope.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n