Obama criticizes Trump and Ramaswamy in Ohio midterm rallies

Former President Barack Obama launched his first campaign rallies for the 2026 midterm elections in Ohio, sharply criticizing President Donald Trump and Republican gubernatorial candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, WHP580 reported.

Speaking in Cleveland, Obama described Trump's administration as marked by "chaos and cruelty" and mocked the president's focus on White House renovations, comparing it to "Saddam Hussein opening a Cheesecake Factory," according to NBC News coverage cited by WHP580.

Obama also condemned a controversial campaign ad from Ramaswamy that featured the estranged mother of Democratic candidate Amy Acton. The ad accused Acton of lying and was criticized for exploiting her childhood trauma. Obama said, "No office is worth stooping that low," as reported by Politico.

In addition to supporting Acton, Obama rallied for Democratic Senate candidate Sherrod Brown, running against Republican Sen. Jon Husted. Ohio is considered a battleground state with both races seen as toss-ups, WHP580 noted.

Obama extended his criticism of Trump to issues such as the ongoing war with Iran and rising consumer prices, arguing that administration actions including tariffs and the war have driven up costs. He urged voters to consider whether Trump has fulfilled his 2024 campaign promises, according to KATV.

Obama plans to continue campaigning in key states to support Democratic candidates ahead of the midterm elections.

What we're watching: How these rallies and criticisms from Obama will influence voter turnout and the tight races in Ohio.