Biden endorsing Harris immediately was a 'big f**k you' to Obama: Report

United States President Joe Biden endorsing his Vice President Kamala Harris as the Democratic nominee for the presidential race, minutes after dropping his re-election bid was a big 'f**k you' to ex-president Barack Obama, a report in the New York Post has claimed. 

Biden was forced by the Obamas and other senior Democrat leaders to drop out of the presidential race, multiple reports have claimed in the aftermath. Although the US president said he was dropping out in "defence of the democracy" and for the better of the nation, the Democrat has reportedly remained salty over the treatment meted out to him. 

Hence, in an attempt to salvage the situation and assert some of his authority, Biden immediately endorsed Harris, which put the Obamas on the back foot.

“It was Joe’s big f–k you,” a source close to the Biden family cited by the publication said. “Joe reportedly said, ‘If I’m out, then I am endorsing her.'”

The report claimed that Barack Obama and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi wanted to hold a "mini primary" which they believe, Harris wouldn't have won. 

Another source said that Biden plans on taking an active role in Harris' campaign to further rub in on the former president. 

Watch: US: Kamala Harris raises record $81 million in campaign funds in 24 hours

Obama endorses Harris

After playing a waiting game, both Barack and Michelle on Friday (Jul 26), endorsed Harris as the Democratic nominee for the November elections.

In a video shared by Harris on her social media accounts, the Obamas could be heard formally endorsing the incumbent vice president.

“We called to say Michelle and I couldn’t be prouder to endorse you and do everything we can to get you through this election and into the Oval Office," said Barack. 

“I can’t have this phone call without saying to my girl Kamala: I am proud of you,” Michelle said, whilst adding: “This is going to be historic.”

Also read: Kamala Harris for president: After Biden exits, his vice president enters race, but can she win?

Meanwhile, Harris thanked the Obamas for their support and expressed gratitude for their friendship.

“Oh my goodness. Michelle, Barack, this means so much to me. I’m looking forward to doing this with the two of you, Doug and I both. And getting out there, being on the road,” the vice president said.

Apart from the Obamas, Harris has now received the endorsement from Pelosi, Chuck Schumer, the US Senate majority leader, Hakeem Jeffries, House minority leader and numerous other top Democrats.

With Obama in her corner, next month's Democratic National Convention in Chicago could see Harris being formally named as the party nominee - making her the first India-American woman to fight for the top job.  

(With inputs from agencies)