Barack And Michelle Obama Rally Behind Kamala, Slam Trump At Democratic National Convention: Key Highlights

At the Democratic National Convention in Chicago today (21 August), former US president Barack Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama urged the Americans to support Kamala Harris, who is set to become the first Black and South Asian woman to be nominated for the presidency by a major party.

Barack Obama, greeted with a warm and enthusiastic reception, opened his speech with, "Chicago, it's good to be home," drawing loud cheers from the crowd.

He quickly evoked memories of his 2008 campaign, stating, "I don't know about you, but I'm feeling fired up and ready to go!"

Obama reflected on the inclusivity of the convention, remarking, "This convention has always been good to kids with funny names who believe in this country that anything is possible."

He then reminisced about his 2008 decision to choose Joe Biden as his vice president, calling it his best decision and noting, "My first big decision was my best - it was to ask Joe Biden to serve as my vice president. Other than some common Irish blood, we come from different worlds, but we became brothers."

Obama commended Biden's empathy and decency, qualities he sees as vital in a leader, saying, "I admired Joe's empathy and decency. His belief that everyone in this country deserves a shot."

Shifting focus, Obama addressed Donald Trump, Kamala Harris' main opponent in the upcoming presidential race, who is seeking re-election.

Obama criticised Trump, describing him as "a 78-year-old billionaire who has not stopped whining about his problems since he rode down his golden elevator nine years ago."

He added that Trump has been perpetuating "a constant gripe, conspiracy theories and grievance," growing more intense as Trump fears losing to Kamala Harris.

Drawing a comparison, Obama noted, "Someone compared Trump to a neighbour who keeps running his leafblower outside your window. From a neighbour it's exhausting, from a president it's dangerous."

Obama accused Trump of fostering divisive politics, asserting that the United States cannot afford another four years of chaos under his leadership.

"Trump wants us to think this country is divided between 'us' and 'them'. Between 'real' Americans who support him and the 'outsiders'. It is the oldest trick in politics. His act has gotten stale. We do not need four more years of chaos as we have seen that movie before and we know the sequel is usually worse," he said.

Michelle Obama also delivered a scathing critique of the current political climate, particularly targeting Trump for his divisive rhetoric and policies.

"For years, Donald Trump did everything to make people fear us," Michelle Obama began.

"His limited, narrow view of the world made him feel threatened by two highly successful and educated people who happened to be Black. It is the same old con, doubling down on ugly, misogynistic, racist lies instead of real ideas and solutions," she added.

Reflecting on Kamala Harris' candidacy, Barack Obama revisited his 2008 "Yes We Can" slogan, updating it to "Yes, she can."

"America is ready for a new chapter and a new story. We are ready for Kamala Harris. She is ready for the job," he said.

"Kamala Harris won't be focused on her problems, she will focus on yours. She won't punish those who refuse to kiss the ring and bend the knee," Obama added.

"We need a president who actually cares about the millions of people across this country. We need a president who will stand up for them and bargain for better wages. Kamala will be that president. Yes, she can," Obama added.

Michelle Obama passionately endorsed Kamala Harris, describing her as more than ready to lead.

"Kamala Harris and I build our lives on the same foundation of values," she said, drawing parallels between their upbringings and shared beliefs in the promise of America.

"Her mother moved here from India at the age of 19. That's why she taught Kamala about justice," Michelle Obama said.

"She often told her daughter, 'don't sit around and complain, do something.' So with that voice in her head, Kamala went out and worked hard, fighting for people, for better wages," Michelle added.

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