Former U.S. President Barack Obama launched a sharp critique of Donald Trump’s administration, calling it marked by “lawlessness and recklessness” as he urged voters to back Democrats in next week’s governor races in Virginia and New Jersey.

Obama, one of the most influential figures in the Democratic Party, appeared at campaign rallies for Virginia gubernatorial candidate Abigail Spanberger and New Jersey’s Mikie Sherrill on Saturday. Addressing an enthusiastic crowd at Old Dominion University in Norfolk, he warned voters that the country was in a “dark place” under Trump’s influence.

“Let’s face it, our country and our policy are in a pretty dark place right now,” Obama said to roaring applause. “Every day this White House offers people a fresh batch of lawlessness, recklessness, mean-spiritedness, and just plain craziness.”

Criticism of Trump’s policies

Obama specifically condemned Trump’s tariff policies and his deployment of National Guard troops in American cities, describing the actions as “shambolic” and “misguided.”

He also accused congressional Republicans of enabling Trump’s behavior, saying they “failed to check him even when they know he’s out of line.”

The former president went on to criticize the complacency of business leaders, law firms, and universities, suggesting many had chosen to “bend the knee” rather than stand up to the administration.

At a second rally in Newark, New Jersey, Obama continued his biting commentary, comparing the Trump White House to an endless Halloween.

“It’s like every day is Halloween — except it’s all tricks and no treats,” he said, drawing laughter from the audience.

He also mocked Trump for focusing on superficial issues amid serious national challenges:
“In fairness, he has been focused on some critical issues — like paving over the Rose Garden so folks don’t get mud on their shoes, and building a $300 million ballroom,” Obama quipped.

Tight races in New Jersey

Polls show Abigail Spanberger, 46, leading comfortably over Republican Lieutenant Governor Winsome Earle-Sears, 61, in Virginia. A former CIA officer and six-year congresswoman, Spanberger has centered her campaign on education, healthcare, and reproductive rights.

In contrast, New Jersey’s race remains tighter. Democrat Mikie Sherrill holds a modest single-digit lead over Republican Jack Ciatterelli, 63, a former state assemblyman making his third bid for governor.

Republicans have gained ground in recent years, with Trump losing New Jersey by just six points in the 2024 presidential election.

Throughout his appearances, Obama urged Democrats to “stand up for truth, compassion, and democracy” in the face of what he called “unprecedented disregard for the rule of law.”

“Democracy doesn’t disappear overnight — it erodes when people stop paying attention,” he told supporters. “It’s up to all of us to push back and defend what’s right.”