In the meeting, Obama also promised to campaign with Biden for re-election in 2024
According to The Washington Post, former President Obama had a private meeting with President Biden this summer; during this meeting, he warned that former President Trump is a “more formidable candidate” than many Democrats realize.
After talking with two individuals familiar with the meeting, Tyler Pager, a White House reporter for The Washington Post, penned an article about President Obama’s private lunch with Biden in June. During this lunch, the former president advised Biden not to underestimate Trump and committed to supporting Biden’s re-election campaign.
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The sources revealed that Obama “voiced concern about Donald Trump’s political strengths — including an intensely loyal following, a Trump-friendly conservative media ecosystem, and a polarized country — underlining his worry that Trump could be a more formidable candidate than many Democrats realize.”
According to Pager’s report, the 44th president made a “promise to do all he could to help the president get reelected.” This gesture was warmly received by the White House, particularly as Biden was seeking assurances of support from top Democrats.
The lunch between the two leaders was part of their regular “catch-up” meetings, during which they discuss a range of political, policy, and personal matters, including updates about their families.
Pager mentioned that the June 27 meeting had no specific agenda according to the White House, but Trump’s polling numbers and continued influence over the Republican Party were significant topics of discussion.
It was clear during the lunch that Obama’s concerns did not revolve around Biden’s political abilities but rather focused on recognizing Trump’s firm grip on the Republican Party.
As per Tyler Pager’s report, former President Obama’s aides state that he will employ a strategy similar to his recent election playbook in assisting Biden’s campaign. This strategy includes holding large rallies in swing states, hosting fundraisers for Biden and other Democratic candidates, and producing ads for competitive congressional races, all of which were used in the 2020 and 2022 elections.
Obama’s campaign efforts will also extend to connecting with young voters through nontraditional settings, such as appearances on platforms like ESPN’s Manningcast during ‘Monday Night Football,’ collaborations with TikTok influencers, and interviews during events like the NBA Finals.
When asked about the private lunch, Obama’s senior adviser, Eric Schultz, declined to comment but confirmed that Obama will customize his campaign activity to maximize its impact. Schultz emphasized the importance of using creative methods to reach new audiences, especially ones that contribute to voter mobilization and volunteer activations. He also mentioned the deliberate selection of moments to achieve their objectives and move the needle.
According to insiders familiar with Obama’s campaign plans, the former president will commence fundraising efforts for Biden in the upcoming fall season.
In response to Obama’s support, Biden’s campaign spokesperson, TJ Ducklo, expressed gratitude for the unwavering backing and expressed eagerness to campaign alongside President Obama once again, aiming to secure victory in 2024 and accomplish the goals set for the American people.