These were former President Obama’s harsh words about Trump

Thursday in Pittsburgh and a very familiar face, and voice, made a striking appearance at a rally. And the message from former President Barack Obama was just as recognisable as he critiqued, some would say tore into, Donald Trump’s character once again. Addressing a crowd gathered at the University of Pittsburgh, Obama took aim at Trump’s self-serving behaviour while urging voters to back Kamala Harris in the upcoming election. The purpose of the event was clearly designed to fire up the important demographic of young voters ahead of the November 5 election.

Obama’s support for Harris is no secret, endorsement coming from him and wife Michelle shortly after President Joe Biden stepped, rather insecurely, off the ticket in the summer. But during his speech, Obama’s message was as clear about Trump being the wrong kind of “shake-up” that America needed as he was for the positive positioning of the Democrat candidate.

Obama targets Trump ego and lies

“I get it,” Obama began, addressing the crowd’s frustrations. “People want to shake things up. What I cannot understand is why anyone would think Donald Trump will shake things up in a way that’s good for you, Pennsylvania.”

Obama didn’t mince words, claiming that Trump was more concerned with his ego and wealth than the American people. “When did that become okay?” he asked, referencing Trump’s misleading statements, particularly about hurricane responses. He pointed to the stark contrast between Trump’s dishonesty and Harris’ commitment to American values, noting that she comes from a middle-class background and has “concrete plans” on issues like housing and taxes. “With Kamala, you’ve got actual plans. Trump – concepts of a plan,” he said with a knowing smile with thoughts of that comment from the debate.

Trump the “bully”

Obama also targeted one of Trump’s perceived strengths among male voters – his brash, confrontational style. “Some men are mistaking Trump’s bullying for strength,” Obama said, shaking his head in disbelief. “That is not what real strength is.” With Harris’ campaign struggling with male voters, this was a direct appeal to reconsider what true leadership should look like.

While Harris spent the day campaigning in Nevada and Arizona, Obama made it clear that he would be on the trail for her in key battleground states. His presence in Pennsylvania, a must-win state for Harris, is just the beginning of a series of events he’ll headline to boost her chances.

Can Obama rally the youth vote for Harris?

Young voters are a critical part of Harris’ coalition, so concerns rose with a noticeable drop in voter registration compared to four years ago. Obama’s ability to energise this group has been one of his political trademarks, and his presence on the campaign trail could be pivotal. But the challenge is real, with registration in Pennsylvania, for example, down 15% compared to 2020, with many saying they feel disillusioned and that their vote doesn’t change much.

Obama has filled this role before, notably for Hillary Clinton in 2016 and Joe Biden in 2020. Whether he can do it again remains to be seen, but his influence in the final stretch of the campaign could be critical for Harris.