Obama is still smearing Trump and Americans are sick of it.
During a recent episode of the “SmartLess” podcast, former President Obama didn’t hold back when discussing the erosion of democratic principles in recent years. Reflecting on the diminishing protection and passion for democracy, Obama pointed out that this trend didn’t start overnight but has been a gradual process, tracing back to the time of former President Clinton and accelerating during his own presidency.
Expressing his surprise at the lack of guardrails within the Republican Party, Obama singled out former President Trump, highlighting that Trump’s ascent to power didn’t catch him off guard. Drawing from his New York roots, Obama noted that Trump’s reputation in his hometown wasn’t one of a serious player in business circles, suggesting a disconnect between Trump’s image and reality.
The conversation didn’t stop at Trump’s persona but delved into the expected reactions from within the Republican Party to Trump’s controversial actions. Obama, joined by fellow former presidents Clinton and Biden on the podcast, shared his anticipation that some Republicans would push back against Trump’s extreme rhetoric and behaviors, particularly concerning issues like praising foreign adversaries over U.S. intelligence agencies.
Meanwhile, Trump finds himself embroiled in multiple legal battles, with two significant cases in New York, including a hush money trial where he faces numerous charges of falsifying business records. Despite his initial ties and fame cultivated in New York City, Trump’s relationship with his hometown has soured over the years, culminating in his decision to change his residency to Florida in 2019.
The podcast episode, recorded in New York City, provided a platform for these former presidents to reflect on the state of American democracy, the challenges it faces, and the role of leadership in navigating turbulent times. Through their candid discussions, they shed light on the complexities of political dynamics and the enduring importance of upholding democratic values.