Former President Barack Obama criticized Donald Trump during a rally in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, calling the former president “crazy” and encouraging voters to support Kamala Harris in the upcoming 2024 election. This marked Obama’s first appearance on the campaign trail for the election, where he aimed to rally support in a critical state.
Addressing a crowd, Obama expressed concern over Black male voters who are reluctant to support Harris, suggesting they may be uncomfortable with the idea of a woman as president. He stated, “This election’s going to be tight,” acknowledging that many Americans are grappling with high prices.
Obama made comparisons between Trump’s lengthy speeches and those of Fidel Castro, asserting that Trump was disconnected from the average American. He questioned why anyone would expect Trump to bring about change, saying, “You think Donald Trump ever changed a diaper?” He further criticized Trump’s controversial ideas, including his plans to sell Bibles, labeling them “crazy.”
As the audience expressed their disapproval of Trump, Obama encouraged them to channel that energy into voting. He affirmed Harris’s qualifications, stating, “Kamala is as prepared for the job as any nominee for president has ever been.”
During his speech, Obama specifically addressed male voters who might respond to Trump’s bravado, arguing that real strength does not lie in bullying others. He noted that some hesitation in supporting Harris stems from lingering biases about female leadership.
On the same day, Vice President Harris participated in events in Nevada and Arizona, focusing on engaging Latino voters. When asked about Trump’s positive attributes, she offered limited praise, saying, “I think Donald Trump loves his family,” while admitting she didn’t know him well.
Meanwhile, Trump continued his campaigning in Michigan, where he detailed his plans for the American auto industry and criticized Harris, calling her “dumber than hell.” He also claimed that the country would deteriorate under her presidency, likening it to Detroit’s struggles.
Harris indicated her intent to participate in a CNN town hall later this month in Pennsylvania, following Trump’s refusal to engage in a second debate with her, describing his decision as a “weak move.”
As the election approaches, Democrats are hopeful that Obama’s involvement will reinvigorate support for Harris, as the race against Trump remains tightly contested.