In a private lunch held at the White House earlier this summer, former president Barack Obama expressed concern about Donald Trump's political strengths, emphasizing his intensely loyal
following, the Trump-friendly conservative media ecosystem, and the deep polarization within the country. Obama made it clear that his concerns were not about President Biden's political abilities but rather about Trump's significant influence over the Republican Party. The lunch was described as a regular catch-up meeting between the two men, who served together in the White House for eight years.
During the lunch, Obama pledged to do everything possible to support President Biden's re-election campaign, a gesture that was well-received by the White House. As Biden seeks help from top Democrats for his upcoming re-election race, Obama, as one of the party's most sought-after surrogates, plays a pivotal role. The former president's specific involvement in the 2024 cycle has not been determined yet, but it is likely that he will follow the playbook used in recent elections.
Obama's popularity among Democrats remains high, and he is expected to increase his political activities in the coming months, including fundraising events for Biden's campaign. The White House welcomed Obama's early commitment to assist the campaign, as it contrasts with past frustrations over his role ahead of the 2016 election when he had favored Hillary Clinton over Biden as the Democratic nominee. While some tension has been suggested between the two camps, senior Biden aides reject this notion and highlight Obama's strong support for the Biden-Harris administration and its agenda.
Leaving the White House after the lunch, Obama recorded a video to aid Biden's online fundraising efforts, encouraging grassroots supporters to contribute to the campaign. As the 2024 election approaches, Obama's influence is expected to play a significant role in supporting President Biden's re-election bid. Photo by Center for American Progress Action Fund from Washington, DC, Wikimedia commons.