Former President Barack Obama and former Vice President Kamala Harris spoke out on Thursday against President Donald Trump’s second-term policies, raising concerns about democracy, free speech, and political intimidation.
At Hamilton College, Obama criticized Trump’s actions, including efforts to reshape the federal government, crack down on immigration and dissent, and pressure news organizations and law firms.
“Imagine if I had done any of this,” Obama remarked. “It’s unimaginable that the same parties that are silent now would have tolerated behavior like that from me.”
He also questioned Trump’s new tariffs, stating they would hurt the economy, but stressed his deeper concern over threats to civil liberties.
“A White House that threatens universities for protecting free speech, or pressures law firms to avoid defending certain clients, is undermining our basic American values,” he warned.
Meanwhile, speaking at the Leading Women Defined Summit, Harris acknowledged the fear spreading under Trump’s leadership.
“We are seeing organizations stay quiet… capitulating to clearly unconstitutional threats,” she said, urging resistance.
Trump recently announced a $100 million pro bono legal services deal with Willkie Farr & Gallagher, where Doug Emhoff works. Emhoff responded, “The rule of law is under attack. Democracy is under attack.”