Barack Obama Hits Campaign Trail for Kamala Harris

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Facts

  • Former Pres. Barack Obama campaigned for Vice Pres. Kamala Harris in Pittsburgh on Thursday, criticizing his successor Donald Trump's economic record and views on social issues.[1][2]
  • In his first appearance on the campaign trail for Harris, Obama said the US doesn't need "four more years of arrogance and bumbling and bluster and division."[3]
  • He accused Trump of inheriting a strong economy from his administration, claiming the US "had 75 straight months of job growth" when Trump took office.[1]
  • In a separate sidebar, Obama told a group of Black men to drop "all kinds of reasons and excuses" not to support Harris for president. Obama said Harris was "somebody who grew up" like them and expressed concern about her allegedly losing traction among Black male voters.[4][5]
  • Making an impassioned plea during this discussion, Obama said, "When we get in trouble and the system isn't working for us, they're [referring to Black women] the ones out there marching and protesting," he said.[6]
  • According to a poll conducted by the NAACP in August, 63% of Black voters plan to vote for Harris compared to 13% for Trump. However, 26% of Black men under 50 support Trump compared to 49% for Harris.[4]

Sources: [1]AlterNet, [2]NBC, [3]Al Jazeera, [4]Forbes, [5]New York Post and [6]NPR Online News.

Narratives

  • Democratic narrative, as provided by The New York Times. Kamala Harris represents the continuation of Obama's legacy and policies that benefit Black communities. She understands the struggles and experiences of Black voters, making her the clear choice for president. Trump's reported support among Black men is misguided, as he has consistently shown disregard for their communities and interests.
  • Republican narrative, as provided by The Hill. Harris' campaign is struggling to generate enthusiasm, especially among Black male voters. Her background as a prosecutor and perceived lack of differentiation from Joe Biden are hurting her chances. Trump's growing support among Black voters suggests a shift in political allegiances and dissatisfaction with Democratic policies.
  • Progressive narrative, as provided by Mint. It's wrong to lecture, belittle, and single out Black men. They don't owe their vote to Kamala, or Trump for that matter, as neither party has fully addressed the community's needs. Both parties have historically treated black voters poorly and have complete disregard for their economic progress. Obama should be directing his criticism to White voters who are leaning toward Trump instead.

Predictions