Obama Calls Out Trump's Actions in First Campaign Rally for Harris

Oct. 11, 2024, 12:30 p.m. Politics

In his first major campaign rally for Vice President Kamala Harris since leaving office, former President Barack Obama wasted no time in calling out former President Donald Trump's actions, highlighting the stark differences between the two administrations and urging voters to support the Democratic ticket in the upcoming election.

Speaking to a crowd of enthusiastic supporters in Florida, Obama criticized Trump's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, his attacks on democratic institutions, and his divisiveness, which he argued has further exacerbated the country's already deep divisions.

"The stakes of this election could not be higher – we are in the midst of a global pandemic, an economic crisis, and a reckoning on racial inequality. And yet, we have a president who has failed to rise to the occasion, who has shown time and time again that he is not fit to lead this country," Obama said.

Obama praised Harris as a transformational leader who will bring a fresh perspective to the White House and a commitment to rebuilding a more inclusive and equitable America. He highlighted her experience as a prosecutor, a senator, and now a history-making vice president, saying that she is exactly the leader the country needs at this critical moment.

"Kamala Harris represents the future of our country - a woman of color, a child of immigrants, and a fierce advocate for justice. She has the experience, the integrity, and the vision to help us build a better future for all Americans," Obama said to thunderous applause.

While touting the accomplishments of the Obama-Biden administration, the former president acknowledged the challenges that lie ahead, including the urgent need to address climate change, reform the criminal justice system, and expand access to affordable healthcare.

"We made progress during my time in office, but we also faced opposition at every turn. And now, we have a chance to continue that progress with Joe Biden and Kamala Harris leading the way. But we cannot afford to be complacent - we must mobilize, organize, and vote like never before," Obama urged the crowd.

Obama's speech came at a time when the Biden-Harris campaign is ramping up its efforts in key battleground states, including Florida, where recent polls suggest a tight race between Biden and Trump. The former president's popularity among Democrats and independents could play a crucial role in galvanizing support for the Democratic ticket and mobilizing voters to turn out on Election Day.

In closing, Obama urged Americans to reject the politics of fear, division, and distraction and embrace a future that is defined by hope, inclusion, and progress.

"We have the power to choose the kind of country we want to be - a country that is united in purpose, that values diversity and empathy, and that works together to tackle our biggest challenges. The choice is ours, and I am confident that if we stand together, we can build a brighter future for generations to come," Obama concluded to resounding cheers from the crowd.

As the campaign enters its final stretch, Obama's rallying cry for unity and progress serves as a powerful reminder of the stakes in this election and the importance of turning out to vote. With just weeks remaining until November 3rd, the Biden-Harris campaign will look to capitalize on the momentum generated by Obama's impassioned speech and continue to build support among voters nationwide.