Vice President Kamala Harris hosted a star-studded rally in Atlanta on Thursday night that featured remarks from President Barack Obama and a performance from rock legend Bruce Springsteen.
The event was the first time Harris and Obama have shared the rally stage this cycle as the Democratic presidential nominee makes her closing pitch to voters in the final dash to Election Day.
Taking the podium after an energizing introduction from Obama, Harris began by nodding to her early support of first Black president’s bid for the White House in 2007.
“It was over 17 years ago when I took a trip to Springfield, Illinois, it was a cold February day, and I went there to support this brilliant young senator who was running for president of the United States. And millions of Americans were energized and inspired not only by Barack Obama’s message, but by how he leads, seeking to unite rather than separate us,” Harris said.
“All these years later, Barack Obama, I say to you, your friendship and your faith in me and in our campaign means the world. Thank you, Mr. President,” she continued.
A senior Harris-Walz campaign official previously told NBC News that Harris advisers’ thinking is that they can dial up voter enthusiasm by putting Obama and Harris side-by-side. Obama’s popularity is enduring, and he remains the sole president since Ronald Reagan to win two presidential elections with over 50% of the vote.
Earlier this week, the 44th president also joined Harris’ running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, at at a campaign event in Madison, Wisconsin.
In addition to rallies in battleground states, Obama is slated to do interviews with podcasters and various internet personalities that attract Black audiences, an Obama aide told NBC News this week.
Former first lady Michelle Obama is also expected to campaign with Harris in Michigan on Saturday, marking her first appearance on the campaign trail this cycle.
Springsteen, who endorsed Harris for president this month, is also just one of the stars illuminating Harris’ closing celebrity lineup. The Thursday event also featured appearances by director Spike Lee, actor Samuel L. Jackson and others.
Harris is also slated to host pop star Beyoncé at an event in Houston on Friday evening, according to three sources familiar with the plans.
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