Barack Obama officially stepped back into the political arena Tuesday offering an endorsement for his former Vice President, Joe Biden.
In a nearly 12 minute video message, Obama stressed Democratic unity, reminding the base that Donald Trump must be defeated and removed from the White House.
Obama touted Biden’s strong character, ethics and empathy, while focusing on his stark differences with Trump. He reminded voters how critical and consequential this election is for the nation.
“If there’s one thing we’ve learned as a country from moments of great crisis, it’s that the spirit of looking out for one another can’t be restricted to our homes, or our workplaces, or our neighborhoods, or our houses of worship,” Obama said.
Related Story: Black Journalists Blast Trump for ‘Demeaning’ Attack on PBS Reporter
The former president highlighted the Trump Administration’s botched and late response to the coronavirus pandemic to stress to the country that elections have consequences.
“It also has to be reflected in our national government… The kind of leadership that’s guided by knowledge and experience, honesty and humility, empathy and grace — that kind of leadership doesn’t just belong in our state capitols and mayors offices. It belongs in the White House,” he said.
“And that’s why I’m so proud to endorse Joe Biden for President of the United States,” he added.
Related Story: Bernie Sanders Suspends Campaign But Says ‘The Struggle Continues’
Obama also showered Biden’s Democratic primary rival Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) with praise and accolades.
“Bernie’s an American original — a man who has devoted his life to giving voice to working people’s hopes, dreams, and frustrations,” he said. “He and I haven’t always agreed on everything, but we’ve always shared a conviction that we have to make America a fairer, more just, more equitable society.”
Watch the video below.
