Barack Obama Photo: Matt Freed / AP/Profimedia
Former US President Barack Obama, taking advantage of his immense popularity among Democrats and independent voters, has actively joined the campaign in support of Kamala Harris, the Democratic presidential candidate. At a rally in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, he urged voters to cast their ballots for Harris in the 5 November election, paying particular attention to African-American men. This was reported by the New York Times.
“The choice is simple” – Obama to African Americans
During a meeting with a group of volunteers and local officials, Obama stressed the importance of actively supporting Harris while reaching out to those who are hesitant. He stated bluntly: “The choice between Kamala Harris and Donald Trump is not a difficult one,” adding that many of those looking for excuses not to support her actually have a problem with her being a woman.
“Women have stood by us all our lives,” Obama said, pointing to the historical role of women in the fight for rights and justice. “When the system doesn’t work for us, they march and protest,” he added.
Anxiety among Democrats over Harris support
Obama’s remarks reflect the deep anxiety in the Democratic Party over Harris’s lack of support among some voter groups. According to recent polls, her popularity among African-Americans is lower than Joe Biden’s in the 2020 elections.
Party analysts believe that Obama could be a key factor in increasing African-American voter participation. “He’s extremely popular with African-Americans, as well as with white suburban voters,” said renowned political strategist James Carville. “And just as importantly, he’s driving Trump crazy,” he added.
According to a poll by The Economist and YouGov, more than 90% of Democrats and a significant number of independents still have a positive view of Obama – significantly more than other party leaders such as Biden or the Clintons.
Sharp attacks on Trump
Speaking to 4,500 supporters at an event at the University of Pittsburgh, Obama was harshly critical of Donald Trump, poking fun at his inability to understand the problems of ordinary Americans. “I wonder if he’s ever even changed a nappy or a tyre,” Obama joked, drawing laughter from the audience.
Obama also criticised Trump for his lies about natural disaster relief, accusing him of manipulating people in the most difficult moments of their lives. “When did that become acceptable?” Obama asked, stressing that Trump was only looking out for his own interests.
He also acknowledged that the pandemic has hit the economy hard and people are looking for change, but he emphasised: “Why does anyone believe that Donald Trump will make that change for the better for you, Pennsylvania?”
“This is a man who thinks only of himself,” Obama concluded.
