President Donald Trump is facing rare public criticism from three of his Democratic predecessors—Barack Obama, Joe Biden, and Bill Clinton—within just two weeks.
Their remarks signal growing concern over the administration’s actions across education, social services, and federal employment.
Obama condemns Harvard funding cut and urges resistance
Barack Obama delivered a speech at Hamilton College, New York on April 3rd, 2025, to motivate higher education institutions against yielding to the Trump administration’s demands. He addressed this issue as the Trump administration suspended $2.3 billion in funding for Harvard University. Harvard University did not comply with the federal demands to eliminate its diversity programs and antisemitism investigations after refusing to do so.
Obama labeled the funding cut “unlawful and ham-handed” and praised the university for standing firm. Speaking again on April 15, he said Harvard had set a standard for resisting political interference. He called on individuals and institutions with influence to stand up for democratic values and civil liberties. “The most important office in this democracy is the citizen,” Obama told the audience.
Biden slams social security cuts in first major appearance
Former President Joe Biden made his first significant public appearance since leaving office at a national conference in Chicago. Addressing a room of advocates and representatives for people with disabilities, Biden criticized the administration’s handling of Social Security. He focused on reported staffing cuts at the Social Security Administration and their potential impact on more than 70 million beneficiaries.
Biden expressed concern that the administration’s actions were already causing harm. “In fewer than 100 days, this administration has caused so much damage and destruction,” he said. “The result is a lot of needless pain and sleepless nights.”
Clinton defends federal workers during memorial speech
Speaking in Oklahoma City at a ceremony marking the anniversary of the Alfred P. Murrah Federal Building bombing, former President Bill Clinton also weighed in. While he did not directly name Trump, Clinton emphasized the dedication of federal employees, many of whom he said are now under threat due to job cuts. He stressed the importance of humility in leadership, stating, “It does you good now and then to admit you’re wrong.”
Presidential historians note that public comments by former presidents on current administrations are uncommon. With three speaking out in such a short period, observers view the moment as unusual and significant.