arack Obama has issued a strong warning about Donald Trump’s leadership, calling it a threat to American democracy. During a speech at the Bushnell Performing Arts Centre in Hartford, Connecticut,

he criticized current federal government actions, especially concerning immigration raids and deportations.

Obama expressed concern about America’s declining commitment to democratic values, stating that the government under Trump has shown a weak regard for how a liberal democracy should function. He emphasized the importance of both civil society and political leaders pushing back against authoritarian behavior,

warning that the U.S. is drifting toward a system where elections exist but fairness, inclusion, and the rule of law are undermined, much like what is seen under leaders like Hungary’s Viktor Orbán. While stressing that the U.S. has not become authoritarian, Obama said it is dangerously close to normalizing such conduct.

A major concern for him is the growing political divide over basic facts. Referring to Trump’s false claims of winning the 2020 election, Obama reminded listeners that only one person truly won, and it was not Trump. He pointed out the danger of political figures knowingly embracing falsehoods for partisan gain, a trend he said threatens democratic integrity. He drew comparisons to past events, like when Trump’s press secretary falsely claimed record inauguration crowds. Despite these challenges, Obama ended on a hopeful note. Calling himself still the “hope guy,” he encouraged Americans to remain impatient with injustice but to focus on building bridges and coalitions. He advised working with others who may not share all views but align on key issues, stressing that real change comes through unity, not division. Drawing on Abraham Lincoln, he said empathy and personal connection are the foundation of democracy and vital to national healing.