Vice President Kamala Harris hosted a star-studded gathering near Atlanta on Thursday night, which featured remarks from former President Barack Obama and a performance from rock legend Bruce Springsteen.
The event marked the first time this term that Harris and Obama will share the stage at a rally, as Democratic presidential candidate Harris delivers her closing address to voters in the final stretch before Election Day.
After a lively introduction from Obama, Harris took to the stage in Clarkston, a suburb of Atlanta, in a nod to her early support for the 2007 bid for the White House by the first black president. I started with.
Former President Barack Obama shakes hands with Vice President Kamala Harris at a campaign rally in Clarkston, Georgia, on Thursday. Drew Angerer/AFP – Getty Images
“It was over 17 years ago that I traveled to Springfield, Illinois. It was a cold day in February. I went there to cheer on this brilliant young senator who was running for President of the United States. And millions of Americans were inspired not only by Barack Obama’s message but also by his leadership style, which seeks to unite us rather than divide us. ” Harris said.
“It’s been many years, but I say this to you, Barack Obama: Your friendship and trust in me and our campaign means the world. Thank you, Mr. President,” she continued.
A Harris-Waltz campaign official previously told NBC News that Harris’ advisers believe that juxtaposing Obama and Harris could increase voter enthusiasm. Obama’s popularity remains strong, making him the only president since Ronald Reagan to win the presidential election twice with more than 50% of the vote.
Bruce Springsteen performs at Thursday’s rally Christian Monterrosa/AFP – Getty Images
Obama was joined by Harris’ running mate, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, at a campaign event in Madison, Wisconsin, this week.
In addition to rallies in battleground states, President Obama also plans interviews with podcasters and various internet personalities that appeal to black viewers, an Obama aide told NBC News this week.
Former first lady Michelle Obama is also scheduled to campaign with Harris in Michigan on Saturday, marking her first campaign appearance this term.
Springsteen, who endorsed Harris for president this month, is just one of the stars lighting up the final celebrity lineup. Director Spike Lee and actor Samuel L. Jackson also appeared at Thursday’s event.
Harris is also scheduled to host pop star Beyoncé at an event in Houston on Friday night, according to three people familiar with the plans.
