Barack and Michelle Obama to Join Harris on the Campaign Trail

Barack and Michelle Obama are set to join Vice President Kamala Harris next week at a series of get-out-the-vote events for the Democratic presidential candidate in crucial swing states. The events will take place in Georgia and Michigan, where Harris hopes to energize voters ahead of the fast-approaching Election Day.

This will be the first time that Vice President Harris has campaigned alongside either of the Obamas. Both the former president and first lady remain highly influential figures in U.S. politics, with polls showing they still enjoy widespread popularity. Their participation is expected to give a significant boost to Harris’ campaign, especially as the race against former President Donald Trump remains tight, with less than three weeks until Election Day.

Here is what you need to know

Former President Obama has already been out on the campaign trail in battleground states on behalf of Harris. However, next week’s events will mark the first time that Michelle Obama will hit the road to support Harris directly. At the Democratic National Convention in August, she delivered a powerful speech urging voters to "do something" to ensure Harris wins in November.

The first event is scheduled for next Thursday in Georgia, where record early voting numbers have already been reported. Michelle Obama will campaign with Harris in Michigan on Saturday, October 26, the first day of early voting in the state. In addition to these key stops, Barack Obama is expected to rally for Harris in other battleground states, including Arizona, Nevada, and Wisconsin.

Campaign officials are optimistic about the Obamas’ involvement, viewing their appearances as major opportunities to build excitement and encourage voter turnout before Election Day. According to one senior official cited in an Axios report, the rallies are intended to "snare grassroots enthusiasm" and motivate volunteers to help turn out voters.

The events come at a critical time for Harris, as her campaign intensifies its efforts to mobilize support in key states. The campaign official also noted that a recent rally held by Barack Obama in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, led to nearly 1,000 volunteer shifts being signed up by attendees, a positive sign for volunteer engagement.

A Long-Standing friendship

Kamala Harris has a longstanding relationship with the Obamas, dating back to Barack Obama’s Senate run 20 years ago. She was an early supporter of his 2008 presidential bid, during her time as San Francisco’s district attorney. Their history, combined with the Obamas’ popularity, could make these upcoming events highly impactful for Harris' push to secure votes.

With the race still too close to call, every effort to mobilize voters will be essential as Election Day approaches.