WASHINGTON — Former President Barack Obama delivered pointed remarks intended for Black men contemplating abstaining from the upcoming election. He suggested that such decisions may stem from discomfort with the possibility of a woman in the presidency, implying that alternative justifications might be masking this sentiment. Speaking to campaign volunteers and staff in a Pittsburgh field office, Obama struck a chord with Democrats who are anxious about Vice President Kamala Harris’ prospects against Republican Donald Trump, who has made significant endeavors to engage Black male voters across various demographics.
Obama’s statements reflect a broader concern among Democrats, despite the fact that Black men still largely support Harris. Her campaign has been focused on solidifying this crucial demographic as the electoral battle intensifies, particularly in crucial states like Pennsylvania. Harris’ campaign is banking on high Black voter turnout, especially as Trump has been actively courting Black men and promoting messages that resonate with their interests.
Recent data indicates that Black Americans are the most consistently Democratic racial group in the U.S., with Black men showing nearly equal levels of support as their female counterparts. Polls indicate about 70% of Black voters view Harris positively and prefer her leadership over Trump’s on several key issues, including economic policy, health care, and immigration.
Khalil Thompson, co-founder and executive director of Win With Black Men, acknowledged Obama’s perspective, noting that addressing misogyny can help deepen the dialogue around understanding men’s relationships with women in America. His organization has successfully mobilized significant support for Harris, raising over $1.3 million from Black men in just a single day after President Biden’s withdrawal from the race allowed Harris to emerge as the candidate.
Thompson emphasizes the diverse needs of Black men, seeking not only economic stability but also safer communities and effective healthcare solutions for their families. He highlighted that Black men, like all Americans, aspire to provide for their loved ones and enjoy the simple pleasures of life—stable jobs, safe neighborhoods, and the ability to save for the future.
Vice President Harris reiterated that Black men’s votes must be earned, asserting that they do not automatically align with any political campaign. In an effort to address their concerns, Harris has participated in discussions about her racial identity and conducted outreach focused on relevant policy issues. Upcoming events, such as her live conversation in Detroit with popular Black media figure Charlamagne tha God, are part of broader efforts to foster engagement among Black voters.
The Harris campaign has adopted various strategies, including promoting her candidacy at historically Black colleges and universities, airing targeted media ads, and executing outreach initiatives designed to energize Black voter turnout. Additionally, notable public figures from different fields, including sports and entertainment, have joined the cause to encourage Black men to participate in the electoral process.
At a recent rally, Magic Johnson, the former NBA star, emphasized the importance of mobilizing Black male voters, reminding attendees of Trump’s unmet promises to the Black community. Conversely, Trump’s campaign has actively sought to build rapport with Black men through community events and outreach, highlighting issues like the economy and traditional roles, while suggesting that his own legal challenges foster relatability with Black audiences.
As the election looms, competition between the campaigns grows increasingly pronounced, with Harris generally stronger with female voters and Trump connecting more readily with male voters. The role misogyny plays in Black men’s opposition to Harris has sparked important discussions, according to Philip Agnew, founder of the advocacy group Black Men Build. He argues that Black men’s dual experiences of visibility and invisibility complicate their engagement in politics.
Agnew’s organization traveled across the nation to foster discussions among Black men about civic participation and progressive ideals. Many voiced frustrations surrounding the political landscape and a sense that their perspectives are dismissed. Agnew emphasizes that Black men, driven by love and concern for their families, are deeply invested in the political narrative, not out of indifference, but rather a desire for their voices to be heard and valued.
