Former U.S. President Barack Obama made his first appearance on the 2024 election campaign trail, criticizing Donald Trump and urging voters to back Kamala Harris. Speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania, a crucial swing state, Obama called out Trump’s leadership and encouraged voters to get behind Harris, who is running for president.
Obama Targets Trump’s Leadership
During a spirited rally in Pittsburgh, Obama attacked Trump’s lengthy speeches, comparing them to those of Cuban communist leader Fidel Castro. He questioned Trump’s connection with regular Americans, saying, “You think Donald Trump ever changed a diaper?” The former president also criticized Trump’s actions, such as selling Bibles, calling them “crazy,” and slammed Trump’s embrace of conspiracy theories.
As the crowd reacted with boos, Obama responded, “Don’t boo—vote.” He emphasized that this election would be a close one, acknowledging that many voters were still grappling with high prices but expressed confusion over why anyone would believe Trump would bring meaningful change.
Support for Kamala Harris
Obama strongly endorsed Harris, saying she is “as prepared for the job as any nominee for president has ever been.” He urged Black men, who polls show are hesitant to support Harris, to reconsider. “You’re coming up with all kinds of reasons and excuses…you just aren’t feeling the idea of having a woman as president,” Obama remarked, addressing Black men directly.
Campaigning in Battleground States
Obama’s appearance in Pennsylvania is the first of several planned in key battleground states as the election nears. Vice President Harris, meanwhile, was in Nevada attending a town hall meeting before heading to Arizona to connect with Latino voters.
When asked at the town hall to name Trump’s virtues, Harris diplomatically said, “I think Donald Trump loves his family, and I think that’s very important…But I don’t really know him, to be honest with you.”
Trump Fires Back
While Obama and Harris campaigned, Trump was in Michigan outlining new protectionist measures for the U.S. auto industry. He used the opportunity to launch personal attacks on Harris, calling her “dumber than hell” and warning that if she became president, the U.S. would end up like Detroit, a city he portrayed as struggling.
Trump also declined a final televised debate with Harris, while she confirmed she would participate in a CNN town hall on October 23 in Pennsylvania.
Obama’s Role in the Campaign
Democrats hope that Obama’s popularity will boost Harris’s campaign, which has seen tight competition with Trump in recent weeks. Obama’s support, along with endorsements from former first lady Michelle Obama, who delivered strong speeches at the Democratic National Convention, is seen as crucial in energizing Democratic voters ahead of the November election.
