**Obama and Maher Highlight Challenges for Kamala Harris in 2024 Presidential Bid**

Former President Barack Obama and comedian Bill Maher have both voiced concerns about Vice President Kamala Harris' chances in the upcoming 2024 presidential election. During a rally in Pittsburgh, Obama addressed the lack of enthusiasm among Black male voters for Harris, contrasting it with the energetic support he garnered during his own campaigns in 2008 and 2012. Obama specifically called out Black men, suggesting their tepid support might be influenced by gender biases.

Bill Maher provided his own commentary on the state of Harris' campaign during a recent episode of HBO's "Real Time with Bill Maher." He pointed out the Democratic Party's struggle to galvanize Black male voters for Harris, which he viewed as a troubling sign. Maher quipped about the irony of needing to deploy Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota to engage young Black men. His humorous take included a jab that the campaign might as well have enlisted Michael Bublé or Kim Kardashian to connect with this demographic.

Discussing Obama's efforts, Maher noted that the former president had transitioned from advocating against scolding voters to directly chastising them for not rallying behind Harris. Maher also contrasted the current polling numbers with those from previous elections, emphasizing Harris' weaker standing. He pointed out that, at this stage in 2020, President Joe Biden had a ten-point lead over Donald Trump, while Harris holds only a 2.6-point lead now.

In a broader discussion with his guest panel, which included conservative commentator Buck Sexton and CNN host Laura Coates, Maher elaborated on Harris' polling struggles. He highlighted specific states: in Pennsylvania, Biden had a seven-point lead at this point in his campaign, whereas Harris is up by just one point. In Michigan, Biden was eight points ahead, while Harris is currently tied. The figures underscore the challenges Harris faces as she seeks to secure crucial support ahead of the election.