Words by Jiggy Jones
For the first time since graciously leaving his seat as Commander in Chief earlier this year, Barack Obama was back to make a splash on the political scene. He has rarely been in the public eye since January. On Thursday afternoon (October 19), the former president made trips to both to Newark, NJ and Richmond, VA.
In a packed room at the Robert Treat Hotel, that included over 1,000 invitees and volunteers from the campaign camp of New Jersey’s Democratic nominee for governor, Phil Murphy, Obama reminded everyone that no election can be taken for granted. It is imperative that you exercise your right to vote. Every vote counts. The 44th president, was of course eluding to the previous presidential election, although he did not name drop. According to Obama, he and Phil Murphy go way back. Murphy, who was the United States Ambassador for Germany from 2009 to 2013, was handpicked by Obama to take the position.
Obama emphasized his renowned “forward” slogan as he advocated for his Democratic colleague. Change can only occur through open-mindedness and progressive thinking. Division derives from the lack of advanced thinking.
After a captivating 20-minute charge in Newark, the 44th president hurried to Richmond for Virginia’s Democratic nominee, Ralph Northam. Northam is a former Virginia state senator and U.S. Army Veteran.
In his speech, Obama reinforced his message. Many Democratic voters lack attention when it comes to mid-year and gubernatorial elections. They only show up for presidential election.
“I don’t want to hear folks complaining and not doing something about it,” exclaimed Obama.
Don’t boo. Vote.
Exercising this right through every level of the political realm, is a giant leap for forward movement and a representation of one’s opinion.
The United States gubernatorial elections will be held on November 7, in both New Jersey and Virginia.
What should one do as citizens of New Jersey and Virginia? VOTE. VOTE. VOTE.
