Former President Barack Obama recently spoke out against a highly offensive AI-manufactured video that was circulated by Donald Trump on his social media platform, Truth Social. The disturbing clip portrayed Barack and Michelle Obama as apes, sparking widespread condemnation and allegations of racial insensitivity.
During an in-depth conversation with political analyst Brian Tyler Cohen, Obama emphasized the video’s deeply hurtful nature, explaining how it reinforces a racist trope that dehumanizes Black people by likening them to primates—a historically offensive and damaging stereotype.
Obama remarked, “The vast majority of Americans find this type of imagery profoundly disrespectful. While such content may grab eyeballs or divert attention from pressing matters, when I engage with citizens nationwide, I witness a genuine yearning for dignity, respect, and empathy.”
The provocative video, which has since been taken down from Truth Social, falsely claimed electoral fraud in the 2020 presidential race. It ended with an animation depicting the Obamas as apes alongside characters from Disney’s The Lion King, dancing to the iconic song “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.” It’s important to note that the original Disney movie does not include any ape characters, highlighting the deliberate intent to offend.
Officials from the White House clarified that the administration did not support the video and confirmed its swift removal after it was reported.
Obama also lamented the deterioration of respectful dialogue on social media platforms during the Trump presidency, observing how these channels have increasingly become stages for sensationalism rather than constructive conversations.
He stated, “Social media and television have morphed into a spectacle. What’s most disheartening is the lack of accountability from those who once upheld the honor and respect of their office. Sadly, that sense of duty has diminished.”
To gain a fuller perspective, watch the complete interview below:
