Conservatives Blast Obama’s Speech on Polarization in Politics
Former President Obama’s first speech since the presidential election sparked widespread criticism from conservatives on social media. During his remarks at the Obama Foundation’s Democracy Forum, Obama lamented the polarization in politics and warned that if one side attempts to cement a permanent grip on power, a line has been crossed.
Obama emphasized the importance of pluralism, stating that it is not about holding hands and singing “Kumbaya” but rather about recognizing that power comes from forging alliances and building coalitions. He also cautioned against purity tests, saying they are not a recipe for long-term success.
However, conservatives quickly took to social media to blast Obama’s speech. Journalist Miranda Devine posted, “It’s over for Obama. The spell is broken. Donald Trump vanquished him, Biden, Harris, the Bushes, the Cheneys. All of them, with a spring in his step.”
Conservative radio host Buck Sexton echoed similar sentiments, stating that Obama’s status as a false prophet of the Democratic party is no more. Other conservatives, including Matt Whitlock and Jon Gabriel, also criticized Obama, saying that he turned politics into a system where if you disagree with him, you are a bad person.
Fox News contributor Guy Benson also took issue with Obama’s remarks, saying that he is the problem and that his new project to lessen political divisions is hypocritical.
Obama’s speech called for a renewed dedication to pluralist principles, warning that the alternative is an increasing willingness among politicians and their followers to violate democratic norms.