Former President Barack Obama delivered a strong critique of his successor, Donald Trump, while urging Black men to support Vice President Kamala Harris during a campaign event in Pittsburgh. This event marked the beginning of a tour through key swing states for the Democratic ticket.
At a campaign field office on Thursday, Obama expressed his desire to “speak some truths,” highlighting concerns about lower enthusiasm for Harris compared to his own candidacy. He noted that some Black men might be hesitant to vote for a woman and criticized Trump’s behavior as a false representation of strength.
“You might be thinking about sitting out or supporting someone who has a history of denigrating you, believing that is a sign of strength,” Obama said. “That’s not acceptable.”
Kicking off his campaign tour with less than four weeks until the election, Obama portrayed Trump as disconnected and incapable of leading meaningful change. He referred to Trump as a “bumbling billionaire” and accused him of constantly whining since his initial presidential announcement nine years ago.
Obama emphasized Harris’s qualifications, stating that she has dedicated her life to advocating for those in need, declaring, “Kamala is as prepared for the job as any nominee for president has ever been.”
Despite being out of office for eight years, Obama remains a vital figure in energizing the Democratic electorate. In contrast, Joe Biden, who once played a similar role, has stepped back after allowing Harris to take the lead on the ticket since ending his reelection campaign.
Addressing Trump’s behavior, Obama mocked his use of social media for promoting controversial products, suggesting a disconnect from the concerns of everyday Americans. He described Trump’s promotional tactics humorously and criticized his focus on selling personal merchandise during a presidential campaign.
Obama’s presence underscored the significance of Harris’s candidacy as she aims to become the first woman president. Their shared history, highlighted by an adapted campaign slogan, “Yes, She Can,” resonated with the audience.
Polls indicate that while Harris enjoys a favorable view among many Black voters, opinions toward Trump remain largely negative. Nevertheless, Trump aims to gain support from Black Americans, particularly younger Black men, through messaging centered on the economy and traditional values.
Acknowledging recent hardships, Obama urged voters to recognize that Trump’s proposed solutions would not be beneficial. He pointed out that Trump had previously attempted to dismantle healthcare protections without a viable alternative.
In addition to critiquing Trump’s past actions, Obama brought attention to a recent court filing revealing Trump’s lack of regard for his vice president during the January 6 Capitol riots, asking, “If Donald Trump does not care that a mob might attack his own vice president, do you think he cares about you?”
Pittsburgh resident Glenda Ellison, a retired schoolteacher, expressed her hopes for the election, feeling reassured by Obama’s involvement and his connection to the Black community. She pointed out the significance of having a former Black president supporting another Black candidate.
Obama has been instrumental in encouraging Biden to step aside for Harris in the 2024 race, highlighting their long-standing friendship dating back to his Senate campaign.
Pennsylvania, which Obama won in his previous presidential campaigns, has shifted politically in recent years, becoming a focal point in the upcoming election. Trump has also been active in the state, recently holding rallies in eastern Pennsylvania. Obama’s appearance was designed, in part, to support the reelection of Senator Bob Casey, who faces a challenge from Trump-backed Republican David McCormick.