Former President Trump on Wednesday ridiculed those advising him against personal attacks, citing the pointed critiques delivered by former President Obama and former first lady Michelle Obama at the Democratic convention the previous night.
“Did you see Barack Hussein Obama last night? He was taking shots at your president. And so was Michelle,” Trump said to his North Carolina rally crowd. He continued, “They always tell me, ‘Sir, stick to policy, don’t get personal.’ Yet, they’re taking personal shots all night long. Do I still have to stick to policy?”
Trump responds to the Obamas’ convention speeches by mocking his advisors’ advice to stick to policy rather than personal attacks
Trump proceeded to mimic his advisors’ warnings against personal insults. “Sir, you must stick to policy. You’ll win on the border, inflation, and your great military,” Trump said, referencing their advice.
The tension between Trump and the Obamas extends beyond politics, rooted in Trump’s promotion of the baseless birther conspiracy against Obama. Despite Obama’s backing of Hillary Clinton in 2016, Trump prevailed, intensifying their rivalry.
At the Democratic National Convention’s second night, the Obamas delivered keynote speeches that sharply criticized Trump. Michelle Obama, making a rare public appearance, accused Trump of exploiting fear and failing to understand hard work due to his privileged background. “His limited view made him feel threatened by successful Black individuals,” she said.
Barack Obama compared Trump to an irritating neighbor and criticized him for incessant complaints and self-serving behavior.
Trump faces pressure from fellow Republicans to shift focus from personal attacks to policy issues, as Vice President Harris has gained ground in the polls.
