Barack Obama’s brutal reply to Trump after racist video depicting him and Michelle as apes

Former President Barack Obama responded after President Donald Trump shared—then removed—a social media video portraying Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama as apes. The post, uploaded to Truth Social, quickly drew criticism from observers who labeled it racist and provocative.

Although the clip was deleted, Trump did not apologize. He stated that a staff member had posted the video as satire rather than as a personal message from him.

In an interview published on February 14 with YouTuber Brian Tyler Cohen, Obama described the incident as deeply disturbing. He suggested it reflects a wider deterioration in the tone of American political conversation.

Obama added that, in his view, most citizens still believe in respect, kindness, and basic decency. However, he warned that social media dynamics and partisan media culture have contributed to what he characterized as a chaotic public atmosphere and weakening presidential norms.

Reactions emerged from both political parties. Republican Senator Tim Scott condemned the video as racist, while White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt downplayed the controversy and encouraged the press to prioritize other concerns.

Trump maintained that he neither created the content nor believed an apology was necessary. His response continued to fuel debate surrounding accountability and rhetoric in national politics.

Beyond the dispute, Obama also raised worries about immigration enforcement during the current administration, pointing to reported operations in Minneapolis–Saint Paul. He framed the moment as a broader test of national values, emphasizing that voters will ultimately judge the political climate.