Obama Reportedly Furious with Pelosi Over Harris Endorsement

UPDATE: Former President Barack Obama is reportedly furious with former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi after her swift endorsement of Kamala Harris following President Joe Biden‘s unexpected exit from the 2024 presidential race. According to an excerpt from ABC News’ Jonathan Karl‘s upcoming book, “Retribution,” the fallout from this endorsement is shaking the foundations of the Democratic Party.

The incident unfolded shortly after Biden’s abrupt announcement on July 21, 2024, that he would withdraw from the race. His decision came after a stumbling performance in a debate against Donald Trump, raising concerns about his viability as a candidate. Just a day after Biden’s exit, Pelosi endorsed Harris, igniting anger from Obama, who had hoped for a more deliberative endorsement process.

A source close to the situation revealed that Obama, who had been in regular communication with Pelosi regarding the potential of Biden dropping out, believed “this train has left the station.” The source, familiar with the tension, stated, “Obama called Pelosi and asked, ‘What the f*** did you just do?’” This exchange highlights a significant rift between two of the most influential figures in the Democratic Party.

The book reveals that both Obama and Pelosi had previously agreed to refrain from making endorsements until they could evaluate the landscape, particularly concerning Harris’s viability as a candidate. Obama reportedly questioned why Pelosi chose to act so quickly, as he had expressed doubts about Harris’s ability to secure the nomination.

While a source close to Obama downplayed the tension as “good-natured ribbing,” insiders indicate that Obama was genuinely irritated. A senior Biden advisor commented, “Obama didn’t want Pelosi to endorse Harris because he didn’t think she could win.” This sentiment reflects deeper concerns within the party regarding the electoral viability of Harris.

Pelosi, on the other hand, felt cornered by the political landscape, with many Democratic leaders already endorsing Harris. “No other candidates had stepped forward—Kamala Harris was it,” the book notes. Pelosi’s husband, Paul, was also reportedly taken aback by her decision, expressing surprise at the endorsement.

As tensions mount, Obama took an additional four days before he publicly endorsed Harris. This delay suggests a lingering unease within the party about the direction of the upcoming election. The fallout from this endorsement debacle could have lasting implications for the Democratic Party as it gears up for the 2024 campaign.

NEXT: As the political landscape continues to evolve, all eyes will be on how this rift between Obama and Pelosi affects the Harris campaign moving forward. The full details of this dramatic endorsement clash will be unveiled when “Retribution” is released on Tuesday.

Stay tuned for further updates as this story develops.