Former President Obama is getting ready to campaign for Vice President Harris next week. He’ll be focusing on key battleground states as Election Day gets closer, according to a senior campaign official.
Obama, who served two terms as president from 2009 to 2017, will begin his efforts in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. This state is one of the closest races and could decide the election outcome.
A Fox News poll showed Harris leading Trump by just two points among registered voters. Among likely voters, the race is tied. Biden won Pennsylvania by over 80,000 votes in 2020.
Eric Schultz, Obama’s Senior Advisor, says Obama is committed to helping Harris and other Democrats win.
"President Obama believes this election is incredibly important, and he’s doing everything he can to help elect Harris and Democrats across the country," Schultz said.
His goal is to win the White House, keep the Senate, and regain control of the House of Representatives. The focus now is on convincing and motivating voters in key states.
Obama is still very popular among Democrats and independents, but Republicans view him less favorably. Democrats hope his presence will boost enthusiasm and turnout.
Obama and Michelle officially endorsed Harris in July, just days after Biden ended his re-election campaign. In August, Obama spoke for Harris at the Democratic National Convention, saying she’s ready for the job.
"It’s up to us to fight for the America we believe in," Obama said. "And it will be a fight."
"Kamala has always fought for those who need a voice. She wasn’t born into privilege and actually cares about what people are going through," he added.
Harris and Obama’s friendship dates back 20 years when they met on the campaign trail. She supported his 2008 presidential run and even knocked doors in Iowa for him.
Obama recently helped Harris raise $4 million at a fundraiser. In total, his efforts have raised $76 million for her campaign.
In the coming weeks, Obama will record ads, send fundraising emails, and travel for a coordinated "get out the vote" campaign.
Harris’ campaign is led by Jen O'Malley Dillon Harris, who managed Obama’s campaigns and Biden’s 2020 run. Other former Obama aides, including David Plouffe, are also on the team.
Harris campaigned in Wisconsin on Thursday with former Republican Rep. Liz Cheney. Meanwhile, Trump is returning to Butler, Pennsylvania, for a rally on Saturday, his first since the July 13 assassination attempt.