United States President Barack Obama has officially endorsed Hillary Clinton to take over his job.
In a video released by Ms Clinton's campaign on Friday morning (NZ time), Mr Obama congratulated Ms Clinton for making history as the first woman to become the presumptive Democratic nominee.
"I know how hard this job can be. That's why I know Hillary will be so good at it. In fact, I don't think there's ever been someone so qualified to hold this office."
Mr Obama, who defeated Ms Clinton to become the Democratic nominee in 2008, praised her courage and compassion, and cited her time as Secretary of State as proof of her judgment and toughness.
"I'm with her."
Ms Clinton tweeted, "Honored to have you with me, @POTUS. I'm fired up and ready to go!"
Presumptive Republican nominee Donald Trump responded a short time later: "Obama just endorsed Crooked Hillary. He wants four more years of Obama – but nobody else does!"
Mr Obama's announcement comes shortly after he met Ms Clinton's rival Bernie Sanders at the White House, where Mr Sanders promised to stay in the race through to the last primary election next week, despite trailing in votes.
Ms Clinton won enough delegates to secure the Democratic nomination this week and become the first woman to lead a major US party as its presidential nominee.
Mr Sanders said he had congratulated Ms Clinton and looked forward to meeting with her in the future. He also thanked Mr Obama for remaining impartial during the Democratic primary process.
Mr Obama will join Ms Clinton on the campaign trail in Wisconsin next week.
Newshub.
