Tuesday night, former President Barack Obama commanded the stage at the Democratic National Convention (DNC), receiving a raucous welcome as he underscored Vice President Kamala Harris’s principles and critiqued Donald Trump’s approach to leadership. Obama stated that Trump views power solely as a “means to his ends,” referencing Trump’s dismissal of a bipartisan immigration deal crafted partly by conservative Republicans. He accused Trump of prioritizing his political gain over the nation’s welfare by sabotaging efforts to secure the southern border.
Obama’s critique drew boos from the audience, but he quickly redirected their energy, urging, “Do not boo; vote,” which sparked a wave of cheers throughout the hall.
At previous campaign events, including the 2016 DNC, Obama has consistently called for action, a sentiment echoed again on this occasion. Democrats have laid the blame for the collapse of a $118 billion bipartisan border safety bill squarely on Trump. This now-defunct legislation garnered bipartisan support, including from President Joe Biden, and aimed to implement stricter immigration laws while bolstering federal presence at the southern border, an issue of high significance among voters.
Before the border bill vote, Trump criticized the legislation on his Truth Social account, labeling it a “great gift to the Democrats” and warning it would lead to a “Death Wish for The Republican Party.” House Speaker Mike Johnson labeled the bill “dead on arrival” in the Republican-controlled House.
In his address, Obama highlighted his enduring bond with Biden, remarking, “History will remember Joe Biden as an outstanding president who defended democracy at a moment of danger.” He expressed pride in calling Biden both his president and friend, following Biden’s decision to step aside as the nominee under party pressure.
Michelle Obama also took the stage, accusing Trump of instilling fear regarding her and her husband. “For years, Donald Trump did everything in his power to try to make people fear us,” she stated. She further emphasized how Trump’s limited worldview led him to feel threatened by the success of two Black professionals.