Former President Barack Obama began a campaign tour in support of Vice President Kamala Harris in Pennsylvania, where he addressed a rally and spoke candidly with Black men at a Pittsburgh campaign office. Obama expressed concern over lower levels of enthusiasm among Black voters, particularly Black men, compared to his own presidential runs.
He urged them to support Harris and criticized any hesitation to back her candidacy. Drawing comparisons between Harris and former President Donald Trump, Obama emphasized that Trump has consistently shown disregard for the Black community and urged men not to sit out the election or oppose Harris, particularly because she is a woman.
Obama addressed the issue of masculinity during his speech, challenging the notion that supporting a candidate like Trump, known for belittling others, is a sign of strength. He rejected the idea that being a man meant putting women down and urged men to reconsider their stance if they were hesitant to vote for Harris.
His appearance in Pittsburgh was part of his broader campaign effort in key battleground states, with more visits planned in the lead-up to the 2024 election. At the rally, Obama took direct aim at Trump, portraying him as a self-centered billionaire who prioritizes his own ego and wealth over the needs of ordinary Americans.
During his speech, Obama also criticized Trump’s efforts to dismantle the Affordable Care Act (ACA), highlighting that Trump failed in his attempts to repeal the landmark healthcare law. He mocked Trump for not having a clear plan to replace the ACA even years after leaving office.
Obama contrasted Harris with Trump, saying that as president, she would work for the benefit of all Americans, unlike Trump, who focuses on personal gain. Both Obama and his wife, Michelle, have publicly endorsed Harris and are committed to supporting her in her bid for the White House.
At the rally, Obama made light of Trump’s detachment from the realities of everyday life, contrasting Trump’s lifestyle with Harris’ early work experience at McDonald’s. He criticized Trump and Republican vice presidential nominee JD Vance for consistently diverting policy conversations toward immigration, even when other important issues are on the table.
Obama used the example of recent hurricanes to emphasize the importance of competent and honest leadership in times of crisis, arguing that Harris is prepared to take on the role of president.
Since leaving office, Obama has remained a key figure in the Democratic Party, and his support for Harris has been significant, especially after President Joe Biden dropped out of the race earlier in 2024. Harris, meanwhile, has been actively campaigning in swing states like Pennsylvania and Nevada.
She is expected to return to Pennsylvania for more campaign events, while her surrogates, including second gentleman Doug Emhoff and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, continue to rally support across the state.