Barack Obama urges increased turnout of black male voters for Kamala Harris in US presidential election
Barack Obama has urged black men to support Kamala Harris in the upcoming US election, emphasizing that low support for the vice president in the community is unacceptable.
Prior to a campaign speech in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, the former US president expressed his concerns to staff and volunteers at a field office about the energy and turnout levels in certain neighborhoods and communities compared to when he ran for office.
Obama stated, “We have not seen the same kinds of energy and turnout in all quarters of our neighborhoods and communities as we saw when I was running. Now, I also want to say that seems to be more pronounced with the brothers.”
Former president Barack Obama talking with vice president Kamala Harris in 2022. Pic: AP
He further mentioned that some men may not be supportive of a woman as president, critiquing the idea of putting women down as “not acceptable.”
A recent poll said a majority of black voters in swing states support Kamala Harris. Pic: AP
A recent poll of likely black voters in swing states revealed that 82% intend to vote for Ms Harris, while only 12% support Donald Trump.
The same survey also indicated that 21% of black men under 50 years old support the Republican nominee, while 72% back Ms Harris.
During his speech at the University of Pittsburgh’s Fitzgerald Field House, Obama commended Harris as a leader adept at advocating for marginalized communities.
He addressed economic concerns, highlighting why people may seek change and expressing his disbelief in the idea that Donald Trump would bring positive change to Pennsylvania.
Reflecting on recent events in Pennsylvania, Obama emphasized the importance of supporting Harris and opposing efforts to silence voices in the political realm.
Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News
Revisiting the shooting incident in Pennsylvania, Obama condemned attempts to silence political movements and reiterated the importance of supporting marginalized communities. Joined by Elon Musk, Obama also discussed future plans for space exploration and sports policies.
