Midterm campaign appearances took former President Barack Obama to Ohio and Michigan on October 24, 2026, where he criticized Republican attacks on Democratic candidates ahead of the November 3 elections.

Key Takeaways

  • Obama criticized an Ohio campaign ad targeting gubernatorial candidate Amy Acton.
  • In Michigan, he defended Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed against attacks involving his name and faith.

Midterm campaign dispute in Ohio

Obama criticized Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy over an advertisement featuring Acton’s estranged mother. Acton, a former Ohio health director, has spoken publicly about abuse, neglect and homelessness during her childhood.

President Donald Trump and Vice President JD Vance have defended the ad. Some Ohio Republican leaders, including Governor Mike DeWine, have called for its removal. Acton accused Ramaswamy of exploiting her childhood for political gain.

Obama defends Michigan Senate candidate

At a Detroit rally, Obama defended El-Sayed, a former public health official running against Republican former Representative Mike Rogers. Obama suggested that critics were using El-Sayed’s name or faith to undermine him, drawing a comparison with attacks he faced during his own political career.

Obama also criticized Trump and congressional Republicans as he urged voters to support Democratic candidates. The midterms will help determine the balance of power in American politics.

Next milestone

Obama is scheduled to headline a Georgia rally the following week with Senator Jon Ossoff and gubernatorial candidate Keisha Lance Bottoms.

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