A video shared on Truth Social by former President Donald Trump has stirred up controversy due to its depiction of Barack and Michelle Obama as monkeys.
The uproar was caused by a video that Trump reposted, initially presented as a serious segment from the Patriot News Outlet. The video touched upon a Michigan investigation into the voting systems used in the 2020 presidential election—an election Trump has frequently criticized, alleging fraud despite lacking supporting evidence.
Throughout most of the video, it maintains a serious tone, showing what seems to be an ordinary interview. But in its final moments, the video takes a shocking turn. With “The Lion Sleeps Tonight” playing, an edited image appears showing the Obamas’ faces on monkey bodies in a jungle-like scenario.
The response across social media was overwhelmingly negative, labeling the content as hurtful and ra:cist.
Many were quick to denounce the video, describing it as “distasteful” and “a new low.” Even some former Trump supporters expressed their disappointment and concern, while others accused him of spreading dangerous and divisive rhetoric.
Conversely, there were arguments in favor of the post, with some Trump allies commending him and reiterating concerns regarding election integrity and the reliability of voting systems.
The White House issued a statement concerning the incident.
Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt addressed the LADbible Group, stating that the video was a meme showcasing Trump as the “King of the Jungle” alongside Democratic figures depicted as characters from The Lion King. She dismissed the controversy as “fabricated outrage” and encouraged media platforms to pay attention to issues that truly matter to Americans.
In the 2020 presidential race, Joe Biden captured nearly 51.3 percent of the popular vote, besting Trump, who secured a marginally lesser percentage nationwide.