Former President Barack Obama returned to the big stage on Thursday to bolster support for Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris. During his unscheduled campaign stop in Pittsburgh, Obama delivered several important messages about voting, addressing Black men who have not sufficiently backed the Vice President’s campaign.
“My understanding, based on reports I’m getting from campaigns and communities, is that we have not yet seen the same kinds of energy and turnout in all quarters of our neighborhoods and communities as we saw when I was running,” he stated. While discussing the lack of enthusiasm this election cycle, Obama pointed out that it “seems to be more pronounced with the brothers.” He further asserted, “You’re thinking about sitting out or supporting somebody (in former president Donald Trump) who has a history of denigrating you, because you think that’s a sign of strength, because that’s what being a man is? Putting women down? That’s not acceptable.”
Obama elaborated, “You’re coming up with all kinds of reasons and excuses, I’ve got a problem with that,” he said. “Because part of it makes me think – and I’m speaking to men directly – part of it makes me think that, well, you just aren’t feeling the idea of having a woman as president, and you’re coming up with other alternatives and other reasons for that.”
Barack Obama in full dad mode speaking to young Black men: “These aren’t ordinary times and these are not ordinary elections. You’re lucky Michelle’s not here.” pic.twitter.com/oEUeRFNlzt
— Brian McBride
(@BrianDMcBride) October 11, 2024
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Making a strong point, Obama emphasized, “Women in our lives have been getting our backs this entire time. When we get in trouble and the system isn’t working for us, they’re the ones out there marching and protesting,” he remarked.
Obama concluded by reminding voters that the choice between Harris and Trump should be clear: “On the one hand, you have somebody who grew up like you, knows you, went to college with you, understands the struggles and pain and joy that comes from those experiences,” adding that Harris, who is Black and Asian American, is dedicated to policies that will benefit Black communities, such as affordable housing and health care. “And on the other side, you have someone who has consistently shown disregard, not just for the communities, but for you as a person.”