2024 election updates: Michelle Obama, Harris pump up Michigan crowd

Former first lady Michelle Obama took the stage at Kalamazoo, Michigan, to a roaring ovation before introducing the vice president.

Obama, in her first campaign appearance since the DNC, spoke about Harris’ mature temperament and history of working for all Americans.

“Michigan, do not buy into the lie that we do not understand who Kamala is or what she stands for,” she said.

“Take it from me, I know good people,” Obama said.

She questioned “why on Earth this race is even close,” but contended that Kamala has shown she is ready for the job.

“The real question is, are we ready for this moment?” Obama said.

The former first lady said she was angry at the indifference shown to Donald Trump over his history of division, bias and lack of care for democracy.

“Some folks think he’s funny. That’s how he got elected the first time. Folks gave him a pass and rolled the dice, betting that he couldn’t possibly be that bad,” she said.

“Nothing this man says or does is funny in any way,” Obama later added.

The former first lady addressed the men in the crowd when talking about the stakes of women’s health and reproductive rights if Trump wins.

She talked about the loss that many women have seen in the last three years through the loss of reproductive care following the Dobbs decision and the dangers if Trump pushes for more restrictions.

“Your girlfriend could be the one in legal jeopardy if she needs a pill from out-of-state or overseas, or if she has to travel across state lines because the clinic closed up. Your wife or mother could be the ones at higher risk of dying from undiagnosed cervical cancer because they have no access to regular gynecological care. Your daughter could be the one to terrified to call the doctor if she’s bleeding during an unexpected pregnancy,” she said.

“So fellas, before you cast your vote, ask yourselves, what side of history do you want to be on?” Obama later added.