Former U.S. President Barack Obama has spoken out strongly against President Donald Trump’s recent actions, saying they threaten American values and freedoms. During a discussion with Hamilton College President Steven Tepper, Obama said he is worried about Trump’s leadership, especially how the government is treating the media, law firms, and universities.

Obama criticized the White House’s move to block the Associated Press (AP) from parts of the West Wing. This happened after the AP refused to use the name “Gulf of America,” which Trump wanted to replace “Gulf of Mexico” with. Obama said such actions would not have been accepted from any past president — especially not from him.

“Can you imagine if I had taken away Fox News’ press access?” Obama asked. He said his concerns are not about politics, but about protecting what America stands for — freedom, fairness, and the right to speak up.

He also spoke about how the Trump administration has handled student protests. Obama is worried that the government is threatening to take money away from universities unless they end diversity programs or stop protests. He urged schools and students to think carefully. “If you haven’t broken any rules and you’re just being bullied, then speak up,” he said.

Obama ended by encouraging all Americans to take action, even if it means making sacrifices. “It’s up to all of us,” he said, “especially everyday people who are brave enough to say, ‘This is not right.’”