‘Yes She Can’: The Obamas Bring a Dose of 2008 to the DNC — But With a Warning

“Let us not forget the despair we have felt. Let us not forget what we are up against,” Michelle Obama said.

Former President Barack Obama hugs former first lady Michelle Obama

Barack Obama and Michelle Obama closed the second night of the DNC. Erin Hooley/AP

Barack Obama took the stage on the second night of the Democratic National Convention and pitched Kamala Harris as the natural successor to his legacy.

“Yes she can,” he said in the middle of his speech. “I am feeling hopeful.”

The echoes of Obama’s early political career were strong on Tuesday night (“This convention has always been pretty good to kids with funny names who believe in a country where anything is possible,” he said Tuesday, referencing his famous 2004 DNC speech). Chants reminiscent of Obama’s two presidential campaigns filled the United Center in Chicago as he and his wife delivered remarks to loud cheers.