Last week, former President Barack Obama paid a visit to President Joe Biden at the White House, where they discussed the upcoming election, voicing concern about Biden’s campaign. Obama’s return to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue served primarily as a working visit, as he joined Biden and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi on a call to commemorate the 14th anniversary of the Affordable Care Act (ACA).

In the call, Obama expressed his belief that Biden’s State of the Union remarks had been effective and resonated with the public. He also highlighted the significance of health care as a politically influential issue in the upcoming election. The campaign has recorded additional content that features both presidents, which will be released in the coming weeks.

Obama voiced his concern again that the Biden campaign needs to take the threat of Donald Trump returning to the White House very seriously.

Obama and Biden maintain regular communication, and the former president remains in direct contact with key White House officials, which includes Biden’s chief of staff, Jeff Zients. Obama has offered Biden support since his reelection announcement, aided in fundraising appeals and engaged in private conversations to address concerns from some Democrats about Biden’s run for a second term. Obama’s involvement with the Biden campaign is expected to intensify as the campaign gains momentum. He has already committed to several campaign appearances before November.

A significant demonstration of Obama’s support will take place at a high-profile Manhattan fundraiser that will feature Biden, Obama and former President Bill Clinton. The event, moderated by Stephen Colbert, will include a rare conversation among the three presidents.

While Obama’s influence among disillusioned Democrats is recognized, he acknowledged that the responsibility to win this race ultimately lies with Biden. However, Obama’s extensive appeal and popularity have proven invaluable to the campaign’s grassroots fundraising efforts, which have raised over $15 million so far in this cycle. The campaign also organized a “Meet the Presidents” contest featuring Biden and Obama, generating approximately $3 million in donations.

For the next seven months, Obama will primarily focus on fundraising appeals and mobilizing young Americans, particularly black and Latino voters, who are considered a crucial demographic for Biden’s candidacy. Obama plans to reserve aggressive campaigning for the fall, aligning with his previous strategy of saving his involvement until closer to the election when voter attention is heightened.

Although specific travel plans have not been confirmed, Obama will likely visit college campuses and key cities in battleground states during the fall. Obama’s concerns about Israel’s conflict in Gaza and reproductive rights will play a significant role in his appeal to voters.

Jim Messina, Obama’s former campaign manager and close advisor to the Biden reelection campaign, emphasized that Obama is fully committed to helping Biden secure a second term.

Trump has repeatedly confused Obama and Biden during campaign speeches.

Last month, Michelle Obama issued a statement that she would not be a candidate for president after rumors circulated that she might make a last-minute bid.

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Article by Baila Eve Zisman

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