Barack Obama, the 44th President of the United States, is alleged to be quietly rallying congressional support for his wife, Michelle Obama's potential presidential bid. This comes despite his public endorsement of Joe Biden, his former vice president, for a second term. Political observers suggest these secretive actions may reflect an unspoken fear within Democratic ranks.
Multiple sources reveal that Obama has been holding confidential meetings with prominent Democrats and former administration officials at his Washington, D.C., office. These meetings are said to gauge the level of support for a potential Michelle Obama presidency.
"Barack recognizes the severity of the situation with Joe’s dipping poll numbers," shared a source familiar with the situation. "With 2024 fast approaching, it appears he's grown concerned that Joe might be becoming too elderly and weak to secure a victory."
The official reason given for these private meetings, where attendees shared cheese and crackers, was Obama offering advice and catching up with younger Democratic lawmakers on the state of their home districts.
High-profile attendees reportedly included Democratic House leadership - Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Whip Katherine Clark, Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar - as well as rising party stars such as Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Haley Stevens.
The same source added, "Barack wants to ensure that key figures are backing Michelle before any final decision is made. Challenging a sitting president is a risky move, and he's trying to play it smart."
Sources emphasize that these meetings mark a significant change for Obama, who has largely remained in the background since his presidency ended.
One source noted a previous instance of perceived betrayal by Obama, when he endorsed Hillary Clinton for the 2016 election despite Biden's intentions to run. Relations between the two have purportedly worsened since then.
Rumors also hint at Obama being in secret talks with Democratic candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. as a potential running mate for his wife. "Adding a touch of Kennedy allure to the ticket certainly wouldn't hurt," a party insider mused.
While Michelle Obama has previously stated her intentions to focus on lucrative media deals, recent polls showing Biden's approval rating at a low 41.5% have led some to speculate about her entering the presidential race.
"Michelle has always been apprehensive about a political career due to fears for Barack's safety," said a source close to the situation. "But the stakes are so high that she might be willing to take the risk now."
Another insider added, "Democrats need someone to counter Trump, and Barack believes Michelle is the perfect person for the job. If she were to announce, the election could instantly shift from a tight race to a landslide victory."