Vice President Kamala Harris held a star-studded rally near Atlanta Thursday night, with remarks from former President Barack Obama and a performance by rock legend Bruce Springsteen.
The event marked the first time Harris and Obama shared the stage at a rally by Harris, the Democratic presidential nominee. closing pitch To voters in the last draw on election day.
Taking to the podium in Atlanta’s Clarkston campus after Obama’s energizing introduction, Harris began by noting his early support for the first Black president’s bid for the White House in 2007.
“It was over 17 years ago when I traveled to Springfield, Illinois. It was a cold February day, and I was there to support this brilliant young senator running for president of the United States. Millions of Americans were energized, and not just by Barack Obama’s message, but by his inspired by how he led by trying to unite us rather than divide us,” Harris said.
“After all these years, Barack Obama, I tell you that your friendship and faith in me and our campaign means the world. Mr. President, thank you,” he continued.
A senior Harris-Walz campaign official He previously told NBC News According to Harris advisers, by putting Obama and Harris side by side, they can garner voter enthusiasm. Obama’s popularity is enduring and remains so The only president since Ronald Reagan Winning two presidential elections with more than 50% of the vote.
Obama also joined Harris’ running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walsh, at a campaign event in Madison, Wisconsin this week.
An Obama aide told NBC News this week that in addition to rallies in battleground states, Obama plans to do podcasts that appeal to black audiences and interviews with various Internet personalities.
And former First Lady Michelle Obama is expected to campaign with Harris at Michigan on Saturday, marks its first appearance this period on the campaign trail.
Springsteen, who Harris confirmed This month, the presidential candidate is just one of the stars lighting up his closing celebrity lineup. Thursday’s event also featured performances by director Spike Lee, actor Samuel L. Jackson and others.
Harris is also scheduled to host pop star Beyoncé at an event in Houston on Thursday, according to three sources familiar with the plans.