Barack Obama Clarifies Recent Comments Directed at Black Men
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Former President Barack Obama recently found himself at the center of a heated debate after comments he made directed at Black men during a visit to Vice President Kamala Harris’ campaign office in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Obama’s remarks, which occurred on October 19, have drawn both support and criticism, particularly from some in the Black community.
What Did Obama Say?
While visiting Harris’ campaign office ahead of a scheduled rally in the city, Obama took a moment to deliver a message specifically aimed at men. The crowd, reportedly made up of Black Harris supporters, listened as Obama challenged the idea that some men might not support the idea of a woman president.
“Part of it makes me think, and I’m speaking to men directly, that, well, you just aren’t feeling the idea of having a woman as president,” Obama said, according to Newsweek.
He continued, “Now you’re thinking about sitting out or even supporting somebody who has a history of degrading you? Because you think that’s a sign of strength? Because that’s what being a man is, putting women down? That’s not acceptable.”
Backlash from Critics
Obama’s remarks quickly sparked criticism from some quarters. Former Ohio State Senator Nina Turner was one of the most vocal critics, calling out the former president for singling out Black men.
“Why are Black men being belittled in ways that no other voting group [is]?” Turner asked during an appearance on CNN NewsNight with Abby Phillip. She went on to say that while she had respect for Obama, “for him to single out Black men is wrong.”
Social media reactions followed suit, with many users expressing frustration. According to Newsweek, social monitoring firm Impact Social found that Obama’s comments generated “significantly negative” reactions, with some feeling the remarks were “disrespectful and patronizing to Black voters.”
Obama’s Team Clears the Air
In response to the backlash, Obama’s team reached out to The Shade Room’s Justin Carter to offer clarification on the former president’s intent. Speaking on CNN News Central, Carter shared that Obama’s message was not meant to criticize Black men for their voting choices or pressure them into supporting Harris.
“The sentiment was not to put Black men against the wall and make them feel bad if they choose not to vote for the vice president,” Carter explained. “Really, the message was: ‘Let’s think about this, let’s think about supporting a Black woman for president,’ and not necessarily targeting the Black male demographic.”
Carter also appeared on ABC News to further explain that Obama’s intention was not to “belittle” Black male voters but to encourage them to recognize Harris as a strong presidential candidate. “The intent was just to go out there and show them that she’s a strong candidate,” he reiterated.
The Debate Continues
Obama’s comments have sparked a larger conversation about gender, race, and politics in America. As the 2024 presidential race heats up, how his remarks and the ensuing debate impact voter turnout among Black men remains to be seen.
However, the former president’s team is making it clear that his focus was on urging voters to support Harris based on her qualifications, not on dividing the Black community.
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