Former President Barack Obama recently launched a powerful critique of his White House successor, Donald Trump, while urging Black men to support Vice President Kamala Harris in a spirited campaign rally in Pittsburgh. This rally marked the beginning of his tour through swing states, an effort to rally support for the Democratic ticket as the election draws nearer, with only weeks left until voters head to the polls.
In his address at a campaign field office, Obama took a moment to express his gratitude to volunteers. However, he also wanted to “speak some truths,” particularly after hearing that enthusiasm for Harris among certain demographics, specifically Black men, was lagging compared to what he experienced during his own candidacy. There were concerns that some Black men might consider abstaining from the election altogether.
"Listen, I want to talk directly to the men here," Obama said. "Some of you might not feel excited about having a woman as president, and that’s leading you to entertain some alternatives or come up with reasons to sit this one out." He emphasized that the notion of supporting a candidate like Trump—who has a long history of disparaging individuals—was not a reflection of true strength. "Are you really thinking about not showing up, or even backing someone who has disrespected you? You think that's what being a man is about? Putting women down? That’s just not acceptable," he urged, underscoring the need for a more supportive and inclusive mindset.
Obama made Pennsylvania his first stop in this campaign effort, aiming to sway voters in this pivotal battleground state, especially as early voting is already underway. Speaking at the University of Pittsburgh, he painted a vivid picture of Trump as disconnected from the everyday realities faced by Americans. "Let’s be real here," Obama stated, describing Trump as a "bumbling billionaire" who has been "whining about his problems since he descended his golden escalator nearly a decade ago."
As he transitioned to discussing Harris, Obama presented her as a fierce advocate who has dedicated her life to fighting for those who need a voice. "Kamala is as prepared for the job as any nominee for president has ever been," he declared emphatically, affirming her qualifications and readiness to lead.
Having been out of the presidency for eight years, Obama has emerged as one of the Democratic Party's most reliable figures for energizing voters. His presence is especially crucial now, as Joe Biden has stepped back from active campaigning after allowing Harris to rise as the ticket's leader. The crowd at the rally gave Obama a roaring welcome, which he reciprocated by drawing attention to Trump’s alarming behavior on social media, particularly his erratic posts filled with conspiracy theories and misguided grievances.
"His speeches are just a never-ending cycle of nonsense," Obama joked, likening them to the long-winded rants of Fidel Castro. He also used humor to highlight the absurdity of Trump’s marketing ventures, recalling items like $399 gold sneakers, a $100,000 watch, and a “God Bless the USA” Bible priced at $59.99. “He’s selling you the word of God with his name stamped right next to Matthew and Luke! You can’t make this stuff up,” he quipped, bringing laughter to the crowd.
As the first Black president, Obama's support for Harris, the first woman and person of color to serve as vice president, symbolizes a significant moment in U.S. history. Should Harris win the election next month, she would make history again as the first woman president. At the rally, the iconic campaign slogan "Yes, We Can" was transformed to "Yes, She Can," shining brightly on a screen above the enthusiastic audience.
The stakes are high for both Harris and Trump as they seek the backing of Black Americans. A recent poll from the AP-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research showed that around 70% of Black voters view Harris favorably, with little distinction between how Black men and women perceive her candidacy. Conversely, Trump’s ratings among Black voters are overwhelmingly negative. Nevertheless, Trump is convinced that his messages about the economy, immigration, and traditional values can resonate, particularly with younger Black men.
Recognizing the challenges many Americans have faced in recent years—especially during the pandemic—Obama spoke to the frustration that people feel. “I get why folks are looking to shake things up. Trust me, I’m the ‘hopey-changey’ guy,” he remarked. However, he questioned why anyone would think Trump could bring about positive change. "What I can't wrap my head around is why anyone would believe that Donald Trump would shake things up in a way that's good for you, for Pennsylvania," he asserted.
In his critique, Obama referenced Trump's statements during debates, particularly regarding his plans to replace the Affordable Care Act, emphasizing how Trump never had a viable alternative. “He spent his entire presidency trying to dismantle it, and he couldn’t even get that right,” Obama stated, reiterating the importance of protecting health care for working families.
He also brought attention to troubling incidents from Trump’s past, including a revelation from a recent court filing regarding the January 6th Capitol attack. According to reports, Trump responded dismissively when informed that then-Vice President Mike Pence was rushed to safety due to a violent mob. "If Trump doesn't care that a mob is after his own vice president, do you think he truly cares about you?" Obama asked the crowd, driving home the disconnect between Trump and the average voter.
Amid the political tension, voices from the community echoed sentiments of hope and concern. Glenda Ellison, a retired schoolteacher and Democrat from Pittsburgh, shared her feelings of nervousness leading up to the election, combined with a sense of prayerful optimism. "I really believe that having Obama here can sway some voters who are on the fence about Harris," she noted. “As a former president and the first Black president, I think he resonates with the African American community in a unique way."
The relationship between Obama and Harris stretches back two decades, rooted in mutual support and shared political ambitions. Harris campaigned for Obama during his first presidential run in 2008, and their friendship has only strengthened since then.
Pennsylvania holds a special significance for Obama, as he won the state during his 2008 and 2012 campaigns, while Trump claimed victory in 2016. Biden managed to carry the state narrowly in 2020, making it one of the most closely watched battlegrounds in the upcoming election. Trump, meanwhile, has been rallying support in the eastern part of the state, holding events in Scranton and Reading, as well as returning to Butler, where he survived an assassination attempt.
Obama's rally at the University of Pittsburgh wasn't just a strategic move for Harris; it also aimed to boost the reelection campaign of Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey, who is facing off against Trump-endorsed Republican David McCormick. The stakes in this election couldn’t be higher, and with Obama back on the campaign trail, there’s a renewed sense of energy and urgency among Democratic supporters.
In conclusion, Obama's fiery endorsement of Harris serves as a rallying cry for unity among Black voters, especially men, who may feel uncertain about this election cycle. His message is clear: supporting candidates who uplift rather than belittle is crucial for progress. As the election approaches, every vote matters, and with influential figures like Obama advocating for change, there’s hope for a brighter future.
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