Barack Obama has endorsed Vice-President Kamala Harris as the Democratic presidential nominee, ending days of speculation over his support. In a joint statement with former First Lady Michelle Obama, the former president expressed confidence in Harris’s “vision, character, and strength that this critical moment demands.”

Reports indicate that Ms. Harris reached out to over 100 prominent Democrats, including Mr. Obama, after President Joe Biden announced his withdrawal from the race last Sunday. While Mr. Obama praised Biden’s decision to step down at the time, he stopped short of endorsing Harris.

Having already secured the support of a majority of Democratic delegates, Harris is on course to become the official nominee at the party convention in August.

In their statement on Friday, the Obamas expressed their excitement in endorsing Harris and committed to doing “everything we can” to ensure her election. “We agree with President Biden,” they said, “choosing Kamala was one of the best decisions he’s made. She has the resume to prove it.” They highlighted her accomplishments as California’s attorney general, a US senator, and vice-president.

“But Kamala has more than a resume,” the statement continued. “She has the vision, the character, and the strength that this critical moment demands. There is no doubt in our mind that Kamala Harris has exactly what it takes to win this election and deliver for the American people. At a time when the stakes have never been higher, she gives us all reason to hope.”

The statement was accompanied by a video showing Harris taking a phone call from the Obamas in which they pledge their support. “Oh my goodness,” Harris says in the clip. “Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me.”