Portrait of Barack Obama
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Barack Obama on Joe Biden

Close political ally (strong)

Barack Obama has consistently shown strong support and deep personal affection for Joe Biden, stemming from their eight years together in the White House where Biden served as his Vice President. Obama repeatedly cited the selection of Biden as his running mate in 2008 as one of his best decisions, emphasizing Biden's moral conviction, sound judgment, and ability to find common ground amid complex issues. This relationship has translated into significant political backing for Biden's presidential aspirations.

In 2020, Obama officially endorsed Biden for president, framing him as the experienced statesman needed to guide the country through the COVID-19 pandemic and the ensuing recovery. Obama stressed that Biden had the necessary character and experience to heal the nation, calling for party unity behind the presumptive nominee. This endorsement served to consolidate Democratic support around Biden following a competitive primary season.

More recently, in 2024, Obama expressed concerns regarding Biden's viability following a critically maligned debate performance, which preceded Biden's withdrawal from the race. After Biden stepped aside, Obama released a statement praising Biden's love of country and historical public service, affirming confidence that the Democratic party process would yield an outstanding nominee.

Context

The relationship between Barack Obama and Joe Biden is foundational to modern Democratic politics, as they served together as President and Vice President for two full terms from 2009 to 2017. This eight-year partnership provides the basis for Obama's high level of trust and public support for Biden's subsequent political endeavors. Obama's endorsement carries significant weight within the party due to his sustained popularity post-presidency.

Obama's initial selection of Biden in 2008 was strategic, aiming to pair his own relative inexperience in Washington with Biden's deep Senate background and foreign policy expertise. This history means Obama speaks from a position of intimate knowledge regarding Biden's governing style and temperament, which informs his public statements about Biden's leadership capabilities.

Timeline

  1. Barack Obama selected Joe Biden as his Vice Presidential running mate, choosing him over other finalists like Evan Bayh and Tim Kaine.
  2. Obama officially endorsed Biden for President in a video, citing their strong friendship and Biden's character and experience.
  3. Obama spoke alongside Biden at a fundraiser, reiterating that the reasons for selecting him as VP in 2008—like moral conviction and ability to compromise—apply to his reelection bid.
  4. Reportedly expressed concern to allies regarding President Biden's viability following a poor debate performance, leading to Biden's subsequent withdrawal.

Actions Taken

  1. Political Selection
    Selected Joe Biden as his Vice Presidential running mate after securing the Democratic nomination.
  2. Political Endorsement
    Endorsed Joe Biden for President of the United States after he became the presumptive nominee.
  3. Campaign Event/Support
    Attended a fundraiser with Biden and Bill Clinton to discuss democracy and the upcoming election, praising Biden's positive traits.
  4. Official Statement
    Issued a statement praising Joe Biden's character and public service following Biden's withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race.

Key Quotes

"Choosing Joe to be my vice president was one of the best decisions I ever made, and he became a good friend."

Twitter video endorsement April 14, 2020 — Stating his pride in endorsing Biden for the 2020 presidential election.

"And I believe Joe has all the qualities we need in a president right now."

Twitter video endorsement April 14, 2020 — Stating his belief in Biden's fitness for the presidency in 2020.

"It's a testament to Joe Biden's love of country — and a historic example of a genuine public servant once again putting the interests of the American people ahead of his own that future generations of leaders will do well to follow."

Statement following Biden's withdrawal July 21, 2024 — Praising Biden after he dropped out of the 2024 race.

"Joe Biden is what so many others pretend to be a statesman with sound judgment who doesn't have to hide behind bluster to keep America strong."

Introduction rally in Springfield, IL August 23, 2008 — Introducing Biden as his Vice Presidential running mate.