Obama Congratulates Clinton, to Meet with Sanders

The White House says Barack Obama, the President of the United States, has congratulated Hillary Clinton for securing enough votes in the Democratic primary contests for the presidential nomination. Obama is set to meet with Bernie Sanders, Clinton's main rival in these contests, at Sanders' request. According to the White House, Obama congratulated Clinton during a phone call on June 8 (early June 9 Tehran time). Josh Earnest, the White House spokesman, stated, "Her (Hillary Clinton's) historic campaign has inspired millions and her ongoing battles in her life for the middle class, families, and children continue." President Obama has also had a phone conversation with Bernie Sanders and is scheduled to meet with him on Thursday at the request of the Vermont senator. The President thanked Sanders "for energizing millions of Americans with his commitment to issues like addressing economic inequality and the influence of special interests in our politics." Hillary Clinton currently holds the most delegates in the Democratic primary contests, continuing her victories in six other states on Tuesday. [Read more] The former Secretary of State said in a speech on Tuesday, "We have reached a turning point" and "for the first time in American history, a woman is becoming the nominee of a major party." Mr. Sanders, her main rival, had previously emphasized that the competition with Ms. Clinton would continue until the national Democratic convention to announce the final nominee next month. Obama and Clinton were rivals in the 2008 primary contests, which ultimately ended with Obama's victory. At that time, Clinton expressed her full support for this Democratic politician who has served two terms as President of the United States.