US President Donald Trump has recently found himself at the center of controversy after saying he 'didn't see' a part of a social media video that depicted Barack and Michelle Obama as apes. The clip, which was shared alongside claims about voter fraud in the 2020 presidential election, was criticized for its racist undertones.
The video, set to the tune of 'The Lion Sleeps Tonight', was removed after significant backlash from both sides of the political aisle, including a condemnation from Republican Senator Tim Scott, who described it as 'the most racist thing I've seen out of this White House.'
In comments made to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump insisted he did not make a mistake, stating he had only viewed the beginning of the video before it was posted by a staff member and was unaware of the content of the clip featuring the Obamas.
Initially, a White House spokesperson defended the clip as merely 'an internet meme video.' However, after intense criticism, including from several Republican senators, the post was removed from Trump's Truth Social account, and a White House official indicated that the posting was an error by a staff member.
The video itself borrows imagery from a clip shared by conservative meme creator Xerias, also portraying other prominent Democrats in animalistic fashion. Following the uproar, the Obamas have yet to comment on the incident.
Criticism of the video continued even after its removal, with figures like Derrick Johnson from the NAACP denouncing it as 'disgusting and utterly despicable.' Additionally, many state leaders and senators have demanded immediate accountability and a public apology from Trump, pointing out the implications of such a racist depiction emanating from a sitting president.
The event highlights ongoing tensions surrounding race and representation in American politics, as well as Trump's history of controversial statements and actions relating to the Obamas.
