Former First Lady Michelle Obama, alongside her husband, former President Barack Obama, took center stage at the Democratic National Convention on Tuesday night to vocally support Kamala Harris’s presidential bid.
The event, held at the United Center in Chicago, Michelle Obama’s hometown and Barack Obama’s political launching pad, was charged with energy and anticipation.
Michelle Obama captivated the audience with her stirring remarks, invoking the campaign slogan that marked Barack Obama’s historic 2008 presidential run. “Something wonderfully magical is in the air, isn’t it?” she began, drawing a long-standing ovation.
“The anticipation, the energy, the exhilaration of once again being on the cusp of a brighter day,” Michelle Obama continued. “The chance to vanquish the demons of fear, division and hate that have consumed us and continue pursuing the unfinished promise of this great nation, the dream that our parents and grandparents fought and died and sacrificed for. America, hope is making a comeback.”
Harris, the second woman ever nominated for a major party’s presidential ticket, aims to become the first female president.
Michelle Obama praised Harris as “more than ready for this moment,” highlighting her qualifications and dignity while contrasting her with Donald Trump.
“My girl, Kamala Harris, is more than ready for this moment. She is one of the most qualified people ever to seek the office of the presidency. And she is one of the most dignified.”
She criticised Trump’s divisive tactics, suggesting that his attacks on the Obamas would likely be mirrored in his approach toward Harris.
“Who’s going to tell him that the job he’s currently seeking might just be one of those ‘Black jobs?'” she added, prompting thunderous applause from the crowd.
“It’s his same old con: doubling down on ugly, misogynistic, racist lies as a substitute for real ideas and solutions that will actually make people’s lives better.”
Michelle Obama’s endorsement was marked by a call to action, urging voters to support Harris with enthusiasm and determination. “We need to vote in numbers that erase any doubt,” she said, emphasising that every vote counts in what is expected to be a closely contested election.
Despite her typically reserved stance on partisan politics, Michelle Obama’s influence remains significant within the Democratic Party.
Her speech at the convention, although her first major appearance this election cycle, underscored her continued impact and the vital role she plays in energizing the party base.
Chioma Kalu
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