Obama rallies Democrats in Ohio and Michigan, condemns Trump and allies' campaign tactics

Barack Obama visited Ohio and Michigan on Saturday, using the stops to mobilize Democratic voters ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. In Ohio, he targeted Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, denouncing an advertising campaign that featured the estranged mother of Democratic health official Dr. Amy Acton. Obama said, "In recent days, we've seen there is no line he will not cross, no low he will not sink to," and highlighted Acton's personal history of abuse and homelessness.

In Detroit, Obama defended Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, arguing that critics were exploiting his name and faith. He told the audience, "Abdul is as Michigan as it gets," and referenced his own experience with political attacks. The former president also criticized President Donald Trump, accusing him of corruption and focusing on personal projects at the White House, quipping, "He should be on HGTV."

Trump voted in Florida on the same day and defended the Ramaswamy ad, stating, "The mother said that Amy Acton is a liar, and she's no good. And you know what? I don't think you can get a better reference on that."

Local voters expressed optimism that Obama's appearances would boost turnout. One Detroit resident said the speech "pumps you up to vote," while another noted that some Black voters remain skeptical of progressive candidates. Obama concluded by urging voters to reject what he described as "chaos, cruelty, corruption and incompetence" and to vote for change.

Obama is scheduled to headline a rally in Georgia next week with Senator Jon Ossoff and gubernatorial candidate Keisha Lance Bottoms.