Former President Barack Obama criticized Donald Trump as “crazy” and encouraged voters to support Kamala Harris during his first campaign rally for the 2024 election in Pennsylvania. Speaking to a crowd in Pittsburgh, Obama addressed Black male voters, expressing concern over their reluctance to embrace the idea of a female president.
Obama directed harsh comments at Trump, likening his lengthy speeches to those of Fidel Castro and deeming the billionaire out of touch with everyday Americans. He acknowledged that the upcoming election would be close, noting high inflation as a significant concern for many voters. He questioned why anyone would believe Trump could bring change, humorously asking if Trump had ever performed basic parenting tasks.
In a sharp critique, Obama described Trump’s plans to sell Bibles as “crazy” and condemned the former president’s inclination toward conspiracy theories. When the audience began to boo Trump, Obama urged them not to boo but to vote instead, asserting that Kamala Harris is exceptionally qualified for the presidency.
This rally was part of a strategic effort to rally Democratic support in key battleground states leading up to the November 5 election. Obama particularly targeted male voters drawn to Trump’s aggressive persona. He expressed frustration over what he perceived as excuses among Black men for not supporting Harris, imploring them to reflect on their hesitation.
Meanwhile, Vice President Harris was campaigning in Nevada and Arizona, aiming to connect with Latino voters. During a town hall event, she was asked to identify Trump’s virtues and responded that while he loves his family, she doesn’t have much else to say about him. At a rally in Arizona, she talked about government efforts to aid Florida in recovering from Hurricane Milton.
Trump, campaigning in Michigan, announced new protectionist measures for the U.S. auto industry, including tariffs on foreign vehicles. He intensified his personal attacks on Harris, labeling her “dumber than hell” and warning that electing her would lead the nation to decline like Detroit.
Harris mentioned she would participate in a CNN town hall in Pennsylvania after Trump declined to engage in a final debate with her. She criticized Trump’s decision to forgo the debate, calling it a disservice to voters and a weak move. Democrats are optimistic that Obama’s involvement can energize support for Harris, especially after her initial surge in the polls when she became the party’s nominee following President Joe Biden. Obama and Michelle Obama had previously endorsed Harris at the Democratic National Convention in August.