Obama Criticizes Lack of Black Support for Kamala Harris, Sparking Conservative Backlash

During a campaign stop in Pittsburgh on Thursday, former President Barack Obama appeared to criticize Black Americans who have shown less enthusiasm for Vice President Kamala Harris’ presidential bid compared to his own campaigns in 2008 and 2012.

Obama, before joining Sen. Robert P. Casey Jr., D-Pa., on stage, spoke at a local campaign office. He noted a difference in the energy around the current Democratic nominee, especially among African-Americans.

“We haven’t seen the same level of turnout in all parts of our communities as we did when I was running,” Obama said, adding that the lack of enthusiasm seems more pronounced among Black men. “When you have a choice this clear – someone who understands your struggles – why are you hesitating?”

Reports suggest Obama contrasted Harris’ candidacy with that of former President Trump, emphasizing Trump’s history of disregard for the Black community. Obama urged Black voters not to sit out, suggesting that some reluctance may stem from discomfort with the idea of a female president.

On Fox News, “Jesse Watters Primetime” host Jesse Watters argued that Obama’s remarks indicate Harris’ popularity has plateaued. Vernon Jones, a former Democrat turned Republican, criticized Obama on social media, accusing him of trying to “Blackman-splain” why Black voters should support Harris. Conservative commentator Benny Johnson went further, calling Obama’s comments “sickening” and divisive.

This isn’t the first time a Democratic leader has faced backlash for comments aimed at Black voters. In 2020, President Biden infamously told Charlamagne Tha God that if Black voters had trouble deciding between him and Trump, “then you ain’t Black.”

Following Obama’s visit, Trump campaign spokesman Kush Desai mocked the Democrats for relying on Obama, suggesting his presence won’t sway voters in a state facing challenges like rising prices and border issues. Desai added that Obama should “stick to Netflix” instead of lecturing Pennsylvanians.