Obama urges Georgia voters to use final window to check Trump

Former President Barack Obama returned to Georgia politics on Wednesday with sharp criticism of President Donald Trump, describing next week's midterm election as the final opportunity to limit executive power.

Obama addressed thousands of supporters at the Arena at Southlake in Morrow. He urged Democrats to prioritize electing serious candidates who can counter what he called a spineless Congress that follows Trump's lead. Two days of early voting remained as Republicans expressed concern over slow turnout.

The former president focused on two key races. He sought to energize support for U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff, who is seeking reelection. He also pushed for former Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms to win the governor's mansion, a seat that has been controlled by Republicans for decades.

Obama framed the election as a test of democratic strength. He argued that Georgia Democrats could serve as a check on a president who he said uses the executive branch to push through policies without legislative cooperation. He described the current moment as a chance for citizens to assert their role in governance.

In a separate context, former Georgia Democrat and U.S. Sen. Raphael Warnock and other national figures have also campaigned in the state. The political environment remains tense as both parties mobilize their bases for the final push before Election Day.

The campaign has highlighted the financial stakes of the race. Georgia Democrats launched a $1.4 billion special election fund, a move that Obama referenced in his remarks. He characterized this funding as a last, best chance for voters to make their voices heard.

Obama’s visit follows a series of events where national Democrats have emphasized the importance of local turnout. He joined other figures in urging supporters to participate in the election process. The former president encouraged voters to view their participation as a direct response to national trends.

The next major event is scheduled for the final days of early voting. Campaigns for both Ossoff and Bottoms will continue to hold rallies and outreach events. The official election is set to take place in less than two weeks.