How Obama Reacted to Pelosis Endorsement of Kamala Harris

A new political book has revealed a tense private phone call between former President Barack Obama and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi. The conversation occurred just after Pelosi publicly endorsed Kamala Harris for president. Obama reportedly expressed significant frustration over the timing and nature of the endorsement.

This revelation comes from ABC News correspondent Jonathan Karl’s book, “Retribution.” It sheds light on the internal Democratic dynamics following President Joe Biden’s stunning withdrawal from the 2024 race.

Obama’s Reported Reaction to the Endorsement

According to the book, Obama was caught off guard by Pelosi’s swift move. Pelosi had endorsed Harris less than a day after Biden suspended his campaign. She described Harris as “brilliantly astute” and expressed full confidence in her ability to defeat Donald Trump.

Obama, who had been in regular contact with Pelosi, believed they shared a strategy. He preferred an open convention to select the Democratic nominee. This process would allow other candidates to compete rather than simply handing the nomination to Harris.

An aide to Pelosi summarized Obama’s message as, “What the f**k did you just do?” This account was obtained by the Daily Mail. The call highlighted a clear strategic divide at the top of the party during a critical moment.

The Strategic Divide Within the Democratic Party

The book details that Obama had deep concerns about Harris’s electoral viability. He questioned her potential to beat Trump and her overall competency as a candidate. He argued for a more deliberative process to ensure the strongest possible nominee.

Pelosi’s reported response was that “that train has left the station.” She was referring to the rapid political momentum building behind Harris. President Biden had already thrown his support to his vice president, making her the immediate frontrunner.

Despite the sharp exchange, Jonathan Karl’s reporting suggests the call was later characterized as “good-natured ribbing” by a source close to Obama. However, the incident underscores the high-stakes pressure and conflicting opinions that shaped the Democratic ticket.

The dispute between Obama and Pelosi highlights the complex negotiations that define modern political kingmaking, demonstrating that even party stalwarts can clash over strategy. This behind-the-scenes look confirms that the path to the nomination is rarely as smooth as it appears.

Info at your fingertips

What is the new book that revealed this story?

The story comes from “Retribution,” a book by ABC News correspondent Jonathan Karl. It was published recently and covers various political events. The book provides insider accounts from key political figures.

Why was Barack Obama upset with Nancy Pelosi?

Obama was upset because Pelosi endorsed Kamala Harris so quickly after Biden dropped out. He believed they had agreed to support an open convention process. He felt her move disrupted their shared strategy.

Did Nancy Pelosi and Barack Obama agree on a strategy?

They had been in regular communication and initially agreed Harris should not be handed the nomination unchallenged. The book reports they both supported an open contest. Pelosi’s swift endorsement broke from this understood plan.

How did this event affect the Democratic nomination?

Pelosi’s endorsement significantly boosted Kamala Harris’s campaign momentum. It helped consolidate party support around her quickly. This effectively ended any serious push for an open convention.

Has Kamala Harris commented on running in the future?

In a recent BBC interview, Harris hinted she may run for president again. She expressed confidence that a woman would become president. She stated it was “possibly” in her future.