Former President Barack Obama’s influence in the 2024 presidential campaign has sparked controversy, with claims emerging that he is quietly guiding Kamala Harris and Tim Walz’s campaign efforts, Business Times reported.

Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy brought these claims to the forefront during a recent interview on 770 WABC’s "The Cats Roundtable." He alleged that Obama plays a significant behind-the-scenes role in the Harris-Walz campaign, deploying his trusted aides from his own White House tenure to assist in their efforts.

McCarthy Alleges Obama’s Influence on Harris-Walz Ticket

McCarthy claimed that several key figures from Obama’s administration have joined Harris’s campaign team. Notably, David Plouffe, who played a central role in Obama's 2008 campaign and served as a senior White House advisor, now acts as a senior aide in the Harris-Walz campaign. Plouffe’s involvement has fueled speculation that Obama’s influence extends beyond mere endorsements.

McCarthy’s accusations extended beyond Plouffe. He also mentioned that other prominent Obama-era figures are shaping the Harris-Walz campaign. Stephanie Cutter, known for her strategic messaging expertise during Obama’s campaigns, advises the Harris-Walz ticket on campaign strategy. Jennifer O’Malley Dillon, who has deep ties to the Obama administration, serves as the campaign chairwoman.

These revelations have sparked widespread discussion about the true extent of Obama’s involvement in the 2024 election and whether Harris and Walz’s campaign is being directed by the former president himself.

Former Attorney General Holder’s Role in VP Selection

Adding to the intrigue, Eric Holder, who served as Obama’s attorney general, reportedly took part in the vetting process for selecting Tim Walz as Harris’s running mate. This involvement has raised further questions about the influence Obama’s former administration holds over the current Democratic ticket.

Despite the growing speculation, an insider close to Obama has attempted to downplay McCarthy’s claims. The insider asserted that seasoned strategists, such as those who worked under Obama, commonly lend their expertise to other Democratic candidates. The insider emphasized that Obama would only get involved directly if Harris herself requested it.

Nonetheless, McCarthy has continued to push the narrative that the Harris-Walz ticket is heavily influenced by Obama’s team, describing it as "the most liberal ticket in the history of American politics."

Criticism of Harris’s Choice for Running Mate

McCarthy also criticized Harris for her choice of running mate. He expressed doubts about the strategic wisdom of selecting Tim Walz over Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro, a decision he believes could impact the campaign’s performance in crucial battleground states like Pennsylvania and Georgia.

"Any political science person would tell you it’s all coming down to Pennsylvania and Georgia," McCarthy stated during the interview. He questioned why Harris would choose Walz when Shapiro could have potentially bolstered the campaign’s chances in these key states.

McCarthy’s concerns reflect a broader worry among some political analysts that Harris’s choice of Walz could alienate voters in states vital for securing an electoral victory.

McCarthy Criticizes Harris’s Foreign Policy Stance

In addition to his domestic criticisms, McCarthy also criticized Harris’s foreign policy stance, particularly her perceived lack of support for Israel. He pointed to Harris’s absence during Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s speech to Congress as indicative of her insufficient commitment to Israel, a stance that could affect her support among pro-Israel voters.

Meanwhile, Barack Obama has publicly endorsed Harris and her campaign. Both he and Michelle Obama have expressed pride in Harris’s candidacy, pledging to do everything in their power to help her secure the presidency.

"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," Obama reportedly told Harris.

Conclusion: Speculation and Endorsements Cloud Campaign

As the 2024 election approaches, the debate over Obama’s influence on the Harris-Walz campaign is likely to continue. While McCarthy’s assertions have sparked significant discussion, those close to Obama insist that he limits his involvement to offering advice and support when Harris solicits it.

Regardless of Obama’s level of involvement, the Harris-Walz campaign will need to navigate the complexities of public perception and address the challenges posed by McCarthy’s critiques as they work toward securing the White House in 2024.