U.S. election will be a ‘tight race in a closely divided country’: Obama

Barack Obama cautioned the party faithful not to get distracted by the excitement building since Kamala Harris swiftly ascended to the top of the Democratic ticket as the former president capped off a night of powerful speeches at the Democratic National Convention.

“For all the incredible energy we’ve been able to generate over the last few weeks, this will still be a tight race in a closely divided country,” Obama said Tuesday night in Chicago.

Polls have slightly shifted in Democrat’s favour in important battleground states like Michigan, Wisconsin and Pennsylvania since President Joe Biden removed himself from the ticket. But, the race for the White House remains a close one.

Obama opened his remarks by acknowledging Biden’s legacy, saying history would remember him “as an outstanding president who defended democracy at a moment of great danger.” He then quickly turned the focus to Harris, saying the torch had been passed.

“Now it’s up to all of us to fight for the America we believe,” Obama said to immense applause from thousands of supporters.

While Biden headlined Monday’s speeches, the second night of the convention sharpened its focus on the vice-president. Much of  Obama’s comments reflected on Harris’ background, accomplishments and vision for the future of America.

Michelle Obama, who introduced her husband, told the crowd that there was something special in the air: “America, hope is making a comeback.”

The couple both took jabs directed at the Republican presidential nominee, with the former first lady noting “that for years Donald Trump did everything in his power try to make people fear us.”

“His limited, narrow view of the world made him feel threatened by the existence of two hard-working, highly-educated,