Overview
- Speaking in Norfolk and Newark, Barack Obama campaigned for Democratic gubernatorial hopefuls Abigail Spanberger in New Jersey and Mikie Sherrill in Virginia, with polls cited showing a lead in New Jersey and a tighter race in Virginia.
- He accused President Donald Trump of lawlessness and self-enrichment, highlighting a reported $300 million White House ballroom project alongside other cosmetic upgrades.
- Obama condemned recent ICE operations in cities including Chicago and Los Angeles, alleging street arrests of people including U.S. citizens and likening the climate to "Halloween without treats."
- He warned that threats to U.S. democracy are immediate, urging voters to view the state elections as a test of national direction.
- He criticized congressional Republicans for refusing to challenge the president and voiced concern that the Supreme Court shows no willingness to check perceived excesses of the administration.