Former President Barack Obama took the stage on Thursday at a rally supporting Kamala Harris, making headlines with his biting humor aimed at his successor, Donald Trump. The event, held in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was not just about rallying support for Harris but also served as Obama’s opportunity to critique Trump’s character and policies.
During his speech, Obama made light of the fact Trump has never had to deal with the everyday realities many parents face, sparking laughter from the crowd with his rhetorical questioning. "Do you think Donald Trump ever changed a tire—or even changed a diaper?" Obama asked, leading to someone from the audience shouting, "His own!" This comment drew hearty laughs from those gathered.
The former president’s remarks were sharply critiquing Trump, saying, "What I cannot understand is why anybody would think Donald Trump will shake things up in a way that's good for you, Pennsylvania." This question seemed to target the voters who have expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of affairs but are glancing at Trump’s past record.
Obama reflected on the challenges of parenting, mentioning how he had realized just how expensive diapers could be when he bought some for his daughter, Malia. He connected this personal anecdote to Harris’s proposed policy of offering parents of newborns a hefty $6,000 child tax credit. "I don’t have to tell many of you—raising kids is hard," he said, emphasizing Harris’s commitment to making life easier for families struggling with costs.
He continued to poke fun at Trump, stating, "There is absolutely no evidence this man thinks about anybody but himself" as he lamented how Trump's leadership style could adversely affect the American people. The crowd responded positively to Obama’s comedic jabs, fostering an atmosphere of camaraderie among supporters.
Obama’s critiques didn’t just stay on parenting; he broadened his attacks to target Trump’s entrepreneurial ventures. "Constant attempts to sell you stuff—who does this?" he berated, referencing products Trump has marketed, including sneakers, watches, and even his own brand of Bible, allegedly made in China. Obama painted Trump as someone principally motivated by his ego and wealth rather than by the needs of the people.
The rally amplified political tensions as it came on the heels of rising poll numbers for Trump, which have made many Democratic strategists anxious about the upcoming elections. Polls indicate potential swing state voters like those in Pennsylvania are becoming increasingly divided, presenting both parties with challenges as they seek support.
Among subjects of controversy, Obama also mentioned Trump’s behavior during the January 6 insurrection, reminding attendees of Trump's flippant reaction to the threat against then-Vice President Mike Pence. "If Donald Trump does not care about his own vice president, do you think he cares about you?" he challenged, prompting strong reactions from the crowd.
But it wasn’t all humor and critique; Obama made significant appeals for votes, urging the audience, "Donald Trump sees power as nothing more than a means to an end. Don’t boo; vote! They can’t hear your boos, but they can hear your votes!" This rallying cry aimed to energize party loyalists and remind them of the importance and power of their voice.
Before appearing at the rally, Obama attended the Black Voters for Harris event, where he urged Black men, especially, not to be deterred from supporting Harris simply because she's female. This inclusive message seems to underline Harris's role as not just another candidate but as someone who can genuinely care for and uplift marginalized communities.
Despite the lighthearted critiques, the stakes are high for the upcoming elections where voter turnout, particularly among demographics traditionally supporting Democrats, will be pivotal. Obama’s appearance and sharp wit might help Harris not only boost her profile but also galvanize necessary support against the backdrop of rising Republican fortunes.
