Former President Barack Obama delivered a pointed critique of Donald Trump while urging Black voters to support Kamala Harris during a campaign rally in Pittsburgh on Thursday.
This event marked the start of Obama’s swing-state tour to bolster enthusiasm for the Democratic ticket as Election Day approaches.
Speaking at a campaign field office, Obama addressed concerns about declining enthusiasm for Harris, particularly among Black men. "I want to speak some truths," he said, suggesting that some may be hesitant to support a woman as president. He admonished those contemplating abstention or support for Trump, stating, "That’s not acceptable... Putting women down is not strength."
Obama painted Trump as out-of-touch and ineffective, referring to him as a “bumbling billionaire” who has not stopped complaining since his infamous 2016 campaign launch. He mocked Trump’s various product endorsements, including a $399 pair of gold sneakers and a $59.99 Bible, quipping, “You could not make this stuff up.”
Highlighting Harris's credentials, Obama asserted that she has dedicated her life to advocating for those in need and is “as prepared for the job as any nominee for president has ever been.” He rallied support for Harris, emphasizing her historic candidacy as the first woman, black person, or person of South Asian descent to serve as vice president, and potentially the first woman to become president.
With less than four weeks until the election, Obama’s presence underscored the significance of engaging Black voters, a crucial demographic in Pennsylvania, which has been a battleground state in recent elections. Polls indicate that around 70% of Black voters view Harris favorably, though there is concern about her appeal among Black men.
Obama acknowledged the challenges Americans have faced in recent years, particularly during the pandemic, but urged voters not to turn to Trump for solutions. “What I cannot understand is why anybody would think that Donald Trump will shake things up in a way that is good for you,” he remarked.
The rally at the University of Pittsburgh also aimed to support the reelection campaign of Senator Bob Casey, who is facing a challenge from Trump-endorsed Republican David McCormick. As the campaign heats up, both Trump and Harris are vying for the support of Black Americans, making this demographic a focal point in the lead-up to the election.
