Former President Barack Obama has criticized Black men for their lack of support for Vice President Kamala Harris, blaming sexism for the issue.
Former President Barack Obama has expressed his disappointment with the lack of support Black men have shown towards Vice President Kamala Harris. Speaking on CNN's "Outnumbered," Obama attributed the issue to sexism, arguing that it is "unacceptable" for Black men to let "old prejudices" affect their political choices.
"I've got a problem with that," Obama said. "I've got a problem with those who say that somehow their manhood is threatened by a woman who has power. That's not what being a man is. Being a man is being able to recognize that our own self-worth is not diminished by the success of others, especially not the success of our own sisters and our own daughters."
Barack Obama Blasts Black Men for Harris' Lack of Support
Harris has faced criticism from some Black men, who have accused her of being out of touch with the needs of the community. However, Obama dismissed these criticisms as "nonsense," arguing that Harris is a "strong and capable leader" who is committed to fighting for the rights of all Americans.
"Kamala Harris is a phenomenal woman," Obama said. "She is smart, she is tough, and she is compassionate. She is someone who is going to fight for the things that we care about, like affordable healthcare, good education, and a fair economy. So if you're a Black man and you're not supporting Kamala Harris, then you need to take a good hard look in the mirror."
Barack Obama Blasts Black Men for Harris' Lack of Support
Obama's comments come amid a growing debate over the role of gender in politics. Critics have accused the Democratic Party of promoting a feminist agenda that is alienating Black men. However, Obama dismissed this claim, arguing that the Democratic Party is "the party of progress" and that it is committed to fighting for the rights of all Americans, regardless of their race or gender.
"The Democratic Party is the party that has always fought for the rights of Black men," Obama said. "It's the party of Martin Luther King Jr., it's the party of John Lewis, and it's the party of Barack Obama. So if you're a Black man and you're not voting for Democrats, then you're not voting for your own interests."
Barack Obama Blasts Black Men for Harris' Lack of Support
Obama's remarks were met with mixed reactions. Some praised him for speaking out against sexism, while others accused him of patronizing Black men. However, it is clear that Obama's voice remains a powerful force in American politics, and his words will likely have a significant impact on the upcoming midterm elections.
