Obama Campaigns for Harris in Critical Pennsylvania to Boost Support
Former President Barack Obama held a get-out-the-vote rally for Kamala Harris on Thursday night, aiming to energize Democratic supporters as the party battles Republican Donald Trump in the closing weeks of the campaign.
As voting commenced in the crucial battleground state of Pennsylvania, Obama adapted his iconic rallying cry from his presidency, transforming “Yes, We Can” into “Yes, She Can,” prominently displayed on a screen above the crowd.
Obama acknowledged the challenges Americans have faced in recent years, particularly due to the pandemic and rising costs affecting working families. “I get why people are looking to shake things up,” he stated, emphasizing his understanding of the public’s frustration and desire for better leadership.
He characterized Trump as disconnected from the American people, labeling him a “bumbling” billionaire who has been “whining about his problems” since he announced his first campaign in 2015.
The rally at the University of Pittsburgh marked Obama’s first campaign appearance for Harris as he embarks on a tour of swing states on her behalf. Last month, he attended a Harris fundraiser in California and previously spoke at the Democratic National Convention in August.
Now eight years out of office, Obama remains a key figure for the Democratic Party, effectively mobilizing voters. While Joe Biden, his former vice president, historically played this role, he has refrained from campaigning since stepping back to allow Harris to lead the ticket.
As the nation’s first Black president, Biden’s support for Harris highlights the historic significance of her candidacy. If elected, Harris would be the first woman, Black person, or individual of South Asian descent to serve as president.
Glenda Ellison, a 71-year-old retired schoolteacher and Democrat from Pittsburgh, expressed her nervousness about the election but remains hopeful. She views Obama as a powerful spokesperson who can sway undecided voters in favor of Harris.
“As a former president, especially a Black president, I think that connection with the African American community is important,” said Ellison.
Obama has also played a role in encouraging Biden to withdraw from the 2024 race, as he and Harris have maintained a friendship for over two decades, dating back to her Senate campaign in Illinois.
Pennsylvania is a significant state for Democrats, having been won by Obama in 2008 and 2012, but flipped to Trump in 2016. Biden narrowly secured it in 2020, making it a focal point in this year’s election.
Trump campaigned in eastern Pennsylvania recently, holding rallies in Scranton and Reading, and returning to Butler, where he faced an assassination attempt in July.
Obama’s appearance also aimed to support Pennsylvania Senator Bob Casey, who is facing a challenge from Trump-endorsed Republican David McCormick.
Earlier, Obama visited a campaign office in Pittsburgh, where he brought pastries for volunteers and expressed gratitude for their efforts.
“I’m excited because Allegheny County needs him to promote Harris and Walz, to build momentum and get those blue votes out,” said Sherry Werner, a 60-year-old University of Pittsburgh Medical Center employee.
Wearing a Harris button, Werner noted the increased enthusiasm among supporters compared to previous years, highlighted by the long lines of people eager to attend the event. “Who doesn’t love Obama?” she remarked.
Keywords: Obama, Kamala Harris, Pennsylvania, get-out-the-vote rally, Democratic Party, Donald Trump, swing states, 2024 election, voter mobilization, African American community, Bob Casey, campaign support.
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