Obama and Pelosi Clash Over Kamala Harris Endorsement After Biden's 2024 Exit

Obama and Pelosi had reportedly agreed to abstain from making any endorsements, according to the book

Former President Barack Obama was reportedly unhappy with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi’s swift endorsement of then-Vice President Kamala Harris following President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race. This disagreement unfolded amid a critical period in the US political landscape and was revealed in Jonathan Karl’s new book, "Retribution." Meanwhile, Kamala Harris is contemplating a second presidential run and actively engaging in political endorsements ahead of upcoming elections.

• Nancy Pelosi endorsed Kamala Harris within 24 hours of Joe Biden ending his 2024 re-election campaign, which reportedly angered Barack Obama.
• Obama and Pelosi had privately agreed to refrain from making endorsements before Biden’s abrupt exit from the race.
• Kamala Harris has endorsed Dan Koh in the Democratic primary for Massachusetts’ 6th Congressional District, as the race heats up.
• Harris candidly reflected on her role during Biden’s 2024 campaign in an exclusive interview and is considering a second presidential bid.
• Harris plans to speak publicly about her 2024 campaign during a national book tour and upcoming events.

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Disagreement Between Obama and Pelosi Over Harris Endorsement

Former President Barack Obama expressed anger toward Nancy Pelosi after her rapid endorsement of Kamala Harris for the 2024 presidential nomination. According to Jonathan Karl’s book "Retribution," Pelosi declared her “official, personal and political” support for Harris less than 24 hours after Biden announced his withdrawal from the race. Obama, who had expected the Democratic nomination to be determined through a deliberative process, saw this premature endorsement as a breach of their private agreement to withhold endorsements.

Obama reportedly contacted Pelosi immediately after her announcement, confronting her with a message summarized by Karl as "What the f**k did you just do?" Pelosi, however, responded that “That train has left the station,” indicating her intent to push forward with backing Harris. Sources close to Pelosi indicated that Obama sounded genuinely irritated during the phone call, while a source near Obama later downplayed the conflict as good-natured teasing.

The Political Context of Pelosi's Endorsement

The endorsement came at a difficult political moment as Joe Biden’s cognitive health and campaign viability had become subjects of concern within the Democratic Party and the public. Obama and Pelosi had been in regular contact as it became clearer Biden, at 81 years old, would withdraw. They reportedly agreed Harris should not receive an uncontested nomination. Pelosi's quick endorsement surprised even her husband, who reacted with disbelief.

Despite the internal debate, other prominent Democrats like the Clintons and California Governor Gavin Newsom also endorsed Harris swiftly, leaving Pelosi little choice but to support Harris actively to try to secure a Democratic win.

Kamala Harris Endorses Dan Koh for Massachusetts Congressional Seat

Kamala Harris has actively involved herself in shaping the Democratic field for the 2026 midterm elections, specifically endorsing Dan Koh for the Democratic primary in Massachusetts’ 6th Congressional District. Koh, a former Biden administration official, quickly entered the race following incumbent Seth Moulton’s Senate run announcement. Harris praised Koh’s dedication to working people and leadership ability, encouraging voters in the district to back his campaign.

Koh has demonstrated early momentum, raising $1 million in his first week as a candidate. However, he faces a crowded and competitive primary, with other candidates like Jamie Belsito, John Beccia, Tram Nguyen, and Bethany Andres-Beck also running.

Harris Reflects on 2024 Campaign and Contemplates New Run for Presidency

In an exclusive interview with Australian program 7.30, Kamala Harris reflected on her experience during the 2024 presidential campaign. She candidly admitted feeling "reckless" for not acting to dissuade Biden from running a second term, citing concerns about how the campaign would impact him but never his capacity to serve as president.

Harris described growing concerns about Biden’s stamina for the grueling nature of the campaign amid increasing public scrutiny of his cognitive abilities, especially following his debate performance against Donald Trump in mid-2024. She acknowledged that remaining silent about these issues was a mistake but refrained from doubting Biden’s presidential competence.

On election night, after learning she would lose to Trump, Harris experienced profound grief, equating it to losing a loved one. She emphasized that Trump’s 2024 victory was part of a broader, long-term political strategy rather than a personal mandate. Harris urged America’s allies to maintain faith in US democratic principles despite political tensions.

Her memoir, titled "107 Days," stresses that the limited time she had after Biden’s withdrawal was insufficient to fully turn the race in her favor, suggesting the outcome might have differed if given more time. Harris sees the possibility of a future presidential run and assesses public appetite for her leadership.

Upcoming Events and Public Engagements

Kamala Harris will continue engaging with the public through her book tour and political events, including a scheduled speaking engagement on April 4 at the Golden 1 Center in Sacramento. The event will focus on her 2024 presidential campaign. Harris, born in Oakland, has a robust political career including roles as San Francisco’s district attorney, California’s attorney general, US senator, and vice president under Joe Biden.

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These developments reflect a moment of significant transition and contestation within the Democratic Party as they prepare for future elections and reflect on past campaign dynamics. The evolving roles of key figures like Obama, Pelosi, and Harris will continue to shape the political landscape in the coming months and years.

Questions and answers

Q: Nancy Pelosi endorsement of Kamala Harris

A: Nancy Pelosi, a prominent Democratic leader, has expressed strong support for Kamala Harris, endorsing her for key political roles. Pelosi's endorsement highlights Harris's leadership and experience, reinforcing her position within the Democratic Party. This support plays a significant role in boosting Harris's political profile, especially in her presidential ambitions.

Q: Barack Obama reaction to Harris endorsement

A: Barack Obama has publicly reacted positively to Kamala Harris's endorsements, expressing confidence in her capabilities and vision. As a former president and mentor, Obama's support adds substantial weight to Harris's political endeavors. His reaction emphasizes unity within the Democratic Party and encourages voters to rally behind Harris.

Q: Kamala Harris 2024 presidential campaign

A: Kamala Harris launched her 2024 presidential campaign with a focus on issues like social justice, economic equity, and climate change. As the sitting Vice President, she leverages her national experience to appeal to a broad base of voters. Her campaign aims to build on her historic tenure and presents her as a strong contender for the presidency.

Q: Kamala Harris endorse Dan Koh

A: Kamala Harris has endorsed Dan Koh, a political figure and former aide, signaling her support for his candidacy in local or state elections. Her endorsement is intended to boost Koh's visibility and credibility among Democratic voters. This move reflects Harris's influence and willingness to support emerging leaders within her party.

Q: Kamala Harris book tour 2024

A: In 2024, Kamala Harris embarked on a book tour to promote her latest publication, sharing insights into her political journey and personal experiences. The tour helps connect her with the public and expand her platform beyond politics. It also serves to inspire readers and supporters with her narrative of breaking barriers as a female and minority leader.

Key Entities

Barack Obama: Barack Obama served as the 44th President of the United States from 2009 to 2017, leading significant policy initiatives like the Affordable Care Act. He remains an influential political figure and advocate for Democratic causes.

Nancy Pelosi: Nancy Pelosi is the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, known for her leadership role in steering key legislation through Congress. She is a prominent figure in the Democratic Party and has represented California’s 12th congressional district since 1987.

Kamala Harris: Kamala Harris is the Vice President of the United States and the first woman and person of Black and South Asian descent to hold the office. She previously served as a U.S. Senator from California and as the state's Attorney General.

Joe Biden: Joe Biden is the 46th President of the United States, inaugurated in 2021 after serving as Vice President under Barack Obama. His administration focuses on issues such as pandemic response, economic recovery, and climate policy.

Dan Koh: Dan Koh is a political strategist and former senior advisor to Vice President Kamala Harris. He has been involved in communications and policy planning within the Biden-Harris administration.

External articles

• Obama unleashed 'WTF' rage at Pelosi for endorsing ...
• Obama was 'not happy' with quick Pelosi endorsement of ...
• New book reveals shocking details of Obama call with top ...

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YouTube Video

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