In a fiery first appearance on the 2024 campaign trail, former President Barack Obama delivered a blistering critique of Donald Trump, calling him a “78-year-old billionaire” who has spent the last nine years “whining” about his problems since his infamous descent down a golden escalator.
Stumping for Vice President Kamala Harris and Senator Bob Casey in Pittsburgh, Obama emphasized the dire state of the nation and the need for real leadership. “Many Americans are struggling,” he declared, highlighting the lingering effects of the pandemic and rising costs that have sidelined the aspirations of working families in favor of the wealthy elite.
“Let’s be honest: the frustration is palpable. But why anyone would think Donald Trump is the answer is beyond me,” Obama said, underlining Trump’s self-centered approach and lack of concern for ordinary Americans. “There’s no evidence that this man thinks about anyone but himself.”
With a sharp tongue, Obama compared Trump’s “ranting” to the lengthy speeches of Fidel Castro, noting the absurdity of Trump marketing everything from Bibles to gold sneakers. “Who does that? He wants you to buy the Word of God—Donald Trump edition,” Obama scoffed. “This is about his ego, his money, and his status. He’s not thinking about you.”
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As the crowd reacted with boos, Obama turned their anger into action: “Don’t boo—vote! They can’t hear your boos, but they can hear your votes.” He condemned Trump’s divisive tactics, arguing that Trump thrives on chaos and discord, as evidenced by his failure to act during the Capitol riots aimed at harming then-Vice President Mike Pence. “If Donald Trump doesn’t care that a mob might attack his own Vice President, do you really think he cares about you?”
Obama painted a picture of a nation ready for change, stating, “We don’t need four more years of arrogance, bluster, and division. America is ready to turn the page.” He touted Harris as a dedicated leader who understands the struggles of middle-class families, asserting, “Kamala is as prepared for the job as any nominee has ever been.”
Turning his critique back to Trump, Obama reminded the audience that any economic gains during Trump’s presidency were built on the foundation he had laid, stating, “It was my economy—75 straight months of job growth that I handed over. He didn’t do anything!”
Obama also condemned Trump’s reckless lies regarding disaster responses, arguing that deceiving people in their moments of vulnerability is inexcusable. “When did that become okay?” he asked, challenging the moral fabric of Trump’s leadership.
With a powerful call for genuine strength in leadership, Obama urged voters to reject the toxic masculinity Trump embodies. “Real strength is about responsibility, truth, and helping those in need. That’s what we should want for our leaders,” he proclaimed.
As the rally wrapped up, Obama’s message was clear: it’s time for the nation to rise above division and embrace a future led by those who genuinely care about the American people.
