With Election Day just weeks away, former President Barack Obama has hit the campaign trail to support Vice President Kamala Harris. On Thursday, Obama traveled to Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, a crucial battleground state where polls between the candidates remain close.
Recalling his famous campaign slogan âYes, We Can,â Obama introduced a new version in support of Harris: âYes, She Can.â He praised the vice president as âa leader who has spent her life fighting on behalf of people who need a voice and a chance.â
In his speech, Obama addressed the challenges Americans have faced in recent years, from the pandemic to rising inflation. He expressed empathy for the difficulties many are enduring, while also emphasizing the importance of leadership in such times.
Obama didnât shy away from criticizing former President Donald Trump, describing him as âout-of-touchâ and mocking Trumpâs often lengthy and unfocused rally speeches, which he referred to as âword salad.â He also called out Trump for spreading misinformation, particularly concerning recent claims about FEMAâs response to Hurricane Helene. Trump has accused the administration of neglecting storm victims and redirecting FEMA funds to Democratic-leaning areas and migrantsâallegations the administration has strongly denied.
âEverybody knew it wasnât true, even local Republicans said it wasnât true,â Obama said. He expressed dismay over Trumpâs behavior, asking, âThe idea of intentionally trying to deceive people in their most vulnerable momentsâwhen did that become okay?â
Obamaâs stop in Pittsburgh marked the beginning of a broader campaign tour across key swing states. He previously spoke at a campaign fundraiser in California and at the Democratic National Convention.
Next week, former President Bill Clinton is expected to join the campaign effort, with plans to rally support for Harris in the rural South, according to a campaign spokesperson.