On the basketball podcast “The Young Man & The Three,” former President Barack Obama called on young voters, particularly young men, to participate in the upcoming election.

“My main message is simple,” Obama stated during the podcast, “voting is not difficult.”

Obama is actively campaigning for Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic candidate running against former President Donald Trump, the Republican nominee. With the general election just around the corner, Harris and her team are aiming to engage young men of color.

The podcast was hosted by Tyrese Haliburton, an All-Star point guard for the Indiana Pacers, along with podcaster Tommy Alter.

Obama recognized the difficulties many young men are experiencing today, touching on the ongoing impacts of the economic crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. He highlighted the struggle to afford housing and provide for a family amid increasing expenses.

“Many young men are graduating from school feeling as though they can’t achieve what their parents did,” Obama expressed. “With factory jobs disappearing and even college degrees often not leading to good jobs, they’re realizing it’s tough to buy homes or support families like previous generations did. This understandably leads to frustration.”

He emphasized that while politics can’t fix everything immediately, voting is crucial. “You need to choose someone who sees you, understands your life, and cares about your wellbeing. They’ll be making countless decisions that affect your future, and it’s vital they have your interests in mind.”

As an example, Obama cited the Affordable Care Act, which helped millions gain health coverage, and addressed issues like the unfair treatment of non-violent drug offenses that highlight racial disparities in the justice system.

“We shouldn’t hesitate to spend just half an hour to vote,” Obama urged, speaking directly to the youth. “Let’s think about it: by not voting, you’re allowing older generations to shape your future. You wouldn’t let them dictate your music or fashion. So why let them determine your career prospects and the state of the environment?”

During the discussion, Obama also took a moment to criticize Trump, stating he is “not committed to working for the average person” and suggested that Trump’s focus is more about himself than the needs of the public.