At Ethel Kennedy's recent funeral, an unexpected political discussion between former President Barack Obama and current President Joe Biden was inadvertently revealed to the public.
The two were overheard questioning Vice President Kamala Harris' capabilities in the upcoming presidential elections, the Daily Mail reported.
At the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle in Washington, DC, observers noted Biden and Obama engaged in what seemed to be a grave conversation. A skilled lipreader, Jeremy Freeman, decoded their words, signaling doubt about Harris’ abilities compared to those of Biden.
This exchange unfolded amid the larger setting of Ethel Kennedy’s funeral, which was attended by several other notable figures. Among the attendees were former President Bill Clinton and Speaker Nancy Pelosi, who delivered a eulogy, underscoring the gathering's prominence in the national spotlight.
According to Freeman, Biden commented to Obama, “She's not as strong as me,” concerning Harris. Obama acknowledged the remark and suggested that there was still time to bolster Harris' public image and campaign strength.
Jeremy Freeman's interpretation fueled further discussions on Harris' position within her party and her viability as the next presidential candidate. Nate Silver, a well-known election forecaster, recently labeled the 2024 presidential race a “pure tossup,” noting a shrinking margin between Harris and former President Donald Trump.
Biden's presidential campaign came to a halt following what was widely seen as a lackluster debate performance against Trump. He soon after endorsed Harris, emphasizing the importance of introducing "new voices" in leadership.
His withdrawal set the stage for Obama to step up his support for Harris, specifically targeting voter biases and advocating for her candidacy.
Obama has been notably active on the campaign trail, mitigating the impact of prevailing voter prejudices and reinforcing Harris' competencies. However, the conversation at the funeral seems to have unveiled some underlying concerns between the former and current presidents about the robustness of Harris' campaign.
This conversation is an interesting contrast to Obama’s public support, highlighting a more complex and perhaps strategic approach to their public endorsements and confidence expressed behind the scenes.
At the funeral, amidst discussions of legacy and leadership, Biden and Obama's exchange appeared particularly poignant. "Yeah, we'll get there in time," Biden responded, reflecting a mix of determination and realism about the challenges ahead.
