During a rally in Pennsylvania on Thursday, former U.S. President Barack Obama took the opportunity to sharply criticize his successor, Donald Trump, even comparing Trump's lengthy speeches to those of Fidel Castro. With a touch of sarcasm and humor, Obama portrayed Trump as a 78-year-old narcissistic billionaire who has been "complaining" since his first campaign launch in June 2015.
"You have the all-caps tweets, the rants and raves about crazy conspiracy theories, the two-hour speeches, the word salads. It's just like Fidel Castro, over and over again," quipped the former president. He went on to mock Trump's attempts to capitalize on his brand, saying, "Constant efforts to sell you things. Selling you golden sneakers, a $100,000 watch, and most recently, a Trump Bible."
Obama's remarks sparked backlash, especially from those who recalled his previous engagement with the Cuban government. Critics were quick to point out his history with the Castros, with one user on X stating, "Desperation at its peak: Barack Obama, the architect of rapprochement with Cuba, the friend of Raúl Castro, claims Trump is 'like Fidel Castro.'"
Obama Accuses Trump of Fostering Division
Obama also accused Donald Trump of sowing discord in the nation. "Donald Trump wants us to believe this country is irreparably divided, that there are 'real Americans' who support him and those who don't. He thinks keeping people divided and angry gives him more electoral opportunities, regardless of who gets hurt in the process," he asserted.
In contrast, Obama praised Kamala Harris, highlighting her middle-class background, her experience as a prosecutor, and her suitability for leadership. "America is ready to turn the page. We're ready for a new story where we work together, not apart. Pennsylvania, we're ready for President Kamala Harris!" he declared.
Appeal to Male Voters
Addressing male voters, a demographic where Trump has a lead according to polls, particularly among Generation Z, Hispanics, and African Americans, Obama emphasized that true strength lies not in aggressive or dismissive behavior, but in taking responsibility and standing up for those who cannot defend themselves. He urged Americans to channel their energy into voting rather than booing.
As one of the Democratic Party's most popular figures, Barack Obama received a resounding welcome at a packed university campus in Pittsburgh, a crucial battleground for the November 5 elections. Obama, a steadfast supporter of Kamala Harris since her candidacy was announced, will participate in a series of events alongside his wife, Michelle Obama, to engage voters in the lead-up to the elections.
Michelle Obama, who shares a popularity comparable to her husband's, is also expected to play an active role in the campaign.