In a compelling and electrifying address at the Democratic National Convention, Michelle Obama delivered a scathing critique of former President Donald J. Trump, branding the presidency as a role that might be perceived as a “Black job.” The former first lady captivated a packed Chicago arena with a forceful rebuttal that highlighted her sharp rhetorical prowess.
On Tuesday night, Mrs. Obama, a highly esteemed figure within the Democratic Party, used her platform to bolster Vice President Kamala Harris’s campaign while launching a pointed attack on Trump. She deftly twisted one of Trump’s controversial remarks about immigrants taking “Black jobs” to critique his perspective on leadership and opportunity.
“Who’s going to tell him that the job he’s currently seeking might just be one of those ‘Black jobs’?” Mrs. Obama asked, underscoring the irony of Trump’s previous comments.
The address, which spanned nearly 20 minutes, was notable for its personal resonance. Mrs. Obama referenced Trump’s history of questioning the birthplace of her husband, former President Barack Obama, and expressed how his actions aimed to instill fear and propagate a narrow worldview.
“For years, Donald Trump did everything in his power to try to make people fear us,” Mrs. Obama stated. She criticized his narrow perspective, suggesting it stemmed from his discomfort with successful Black individuals like the Obamas.
Mrs. Obama addressed Trump’s debate-night assertion about immigrants taking “Black jobs” by redefining the presidency as a job that requires resilience and competence—qualities she suggested Trump lacked. “Most of us will never be afforded the grace of failing forward,” she said, a reference to Trump’s privileged background and business setbacks.
In a heartfelt moment, Mrs. Obama paid tribute to her late mother, Marian Robinson, who had been instrumental in her family’s life and the upbringing of her daughters, Sasha and Malia. She acknowledged the personal challenge of speaking on stage after her mother’s recent passing.
Her speech was marked by its directness and emotional depth, effectively engaging the audience both in the arena and at home. Mrs. Obama’s call for optimism and action was clear: “Going small is never the answer,” she declared. “Small is petty, it’s unhealthy and, quite frankly, it’s unpresidential.”
As the evening concluded, former President Obama humorously downplayed his own forthcoming speech, remarking he was “the only person stupid enough to speak after Michelle Obama,” highlighting her enduring appeal and impactful presence.