In a recent address at Hamilton College in New York, former President Barack Obama voiced strong disapproval of the direction the country has taken under President Donald Trump’s leadership, especially in his second term.
Obama, 63, expressed his deep concern over a number of policies that have shaped the current administration, particularly the economic protectionism and harsh immigration measures. One of his primary critiques centered on the sweeping tariffs imposed by Trump on a vast majority of the U.S.'s trading partners. Obama warned, “I do not think what we just witnessed… is going to be good for America.”
While tariffs were a focal point of his speech, Obama emphasized that his concerns extend far beyond that single policy. He voiced alarm over a federal government that takes aggressive actions against universities that allow free speech, referencing the administration’s treatment of pro-Palestinian demonstrators.
In addition, Obama took aim at the Trump administration's attempts to stifle media freedoms. He specifically mentioned the administration’s efforts to restrict law firms and bar AP journalists from covering the Oval Office. He argued that these actions represent a stark departure from the ideals that have traditionally underpinned American democracy. “Imagine if I had pulled Fox News’ credentials from the White House press corps. It is unimaginable that the same parties that are silent now would have tolerated behavior like that from me or a whole bunch of my predecessors,” Obama said, suggesting that the Trump administration’s behavior is an affront to the country’s democratic values.
Obama's criticism was not limited to just policies but extended to the broader atmosphere of division he believes Trump has fostered. The former president reminded the audience that "history zigs and zags,” but cautioned that the country must be mindful of the “times of danger” ahead.
In a parting shot, Obama made reference to Trump’s personal attacks on him during the height of the presidential campaign, where Trump referred to Obama as “a jerk” and accused him of dividing the country. While Trump’s harsh words are well-documented, Obama’s message remained focused on the bigger picture: that America’s future could be at stake if the current course persists.
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