On Wednesday, former President Trump took a sharp jab at his critics who have advised him to avoid personal attacks, referencing the recent speeches delivered by former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama at the Democratic National Convention. Speaking to his supporters at a rally in North Carolina, Trump pointed out that the Obamas had been particularly critical of him, making personal jabs rather than sticking to policy discussions.
“Did you catch Barack Hussein Obama last night? He was taking shots at your President. And so was Michelle,” Trump remarked to his audience. He then questioned the double standard of his critics: “They always tell me, ‘Stick to policy, don’t get personal,’” he said, emphasizing the irony that his opponents were doing precisely the opposite.
Trump proceeded to mimic his critics, saying, “Sir, you must focus on policy. You’ll win on border issues, inflation, and the military you’ve built.” This was a direct critique of those who have urged him to refrain from personal attacks and concentrate solely on policy matters.
The tension between Trump and the Obamas has been ongoing, partly fueled by Trump’s promotion of the unfounded birther theory questioning Obama’s birthplace. This personal animosity was further highlighted when Obama’s support for Hillary Clinton in the 2016 election failed to prevent Trump’s victory.
During the second night of the Democratic National Convention, both Obamas took the stage as keynote speakers. Michelle Obama used her platform to accuse Trump of attempting to instill fear about her and her husband. She criticized Trump’s perceived lack of understanding of hard work and labeled him as someone who is out of touch, attributing his hostility to the success and education of the Obamas.
Former President Obama also took aim at Trump, likening him to an irritating neighbor with a leaf blower, and suggested that Trump’s campaign was driven by self-interest rather than genuine concern for the American people. Obama described Trump as a billionaire who has been perpetually disgruntled, indulging in grievances and conspiracy theories, and mocked his preoccupation with crowd sizes.
Trump’s critics, including some within the Republican Party, have argued that he should shift his focus from personal attacks to substantive policy issues, particularly as polling data shows Vice President Kamala Harris gaining ground on him. Despite this advice, Trump’s rally remarks underscore his belief that responding to personal attacks with similar tactics is justified.