KEY POINTS
- Trump shared a digitally altered video showing the Obamas’ faces on primates in a jungle setting, prompting condemnation from Democrats.
- Only a few Republican officials, including Senator Tim Scott, publicly criticized the post as racist, highlighting GOP divisions.
- White House officials later said the post was shared “erroneously” by staff, though Trump confirmed he approved its posting.
WASHINGTON — Top Democrats on Friday condemned a racist video depicting former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama as apes, posted on former President Donald Trump’s Truth Social account, and challenged Republican leaders to respond.
The post appeared amid Trump’s growing late night social media activity and was removed roughly 12 hours later, sparking bipartisan outrage.
The video’s circulation highlighted persistent tensions over race and political decorum in the United States.
Democrats, led by House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, criticized Republicans for failing to immediately denounce the post, framing it as a test of party accountability on matters of racial sensitivity and public discourse.
Trump, 79, has increasingly used Truth Social for direct communication, often posting controversial content late at night. Previous posts have drawn bipartisan scrutiny but rarely included overtly racist imagery of national figures.
The incident comes amid an intensifying political landscape ahead of the 2026 midterm elections, where race related messaging remains a critical wedge issue.
“Public dissemination of racially offensive material by a former president raises both ethical and political questions for the GOP,” said Dr. Lillian Rodriguez, professor of political science at Georgetown University.
“How Republican leaders respond could influence voter perception in racially diverse constituencies.”
Matthew Continetti, senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, noted, “While some Republicans may hesitate to critique Trump, the long term impact on party image is significant, especially in national and international media.”
Video appeared Friday night on Truth Social, removed after approximately 12 hours. Only two prominent GOP members, including Senator Tim Scott, condemned the post publicly.
Trump confirmed he approved an aide sharing the video but claimed he did not view the racist portion. Hakeem Jeffries publicly called on all Republicans to denounce Trump’s actions.
“Every single Republican must immediately denounce Donald Trump’s disgusting bigotry,” Jeffries, New York congressman and House Minority Leader, wrote on X.
Senator Tim Scott, the only Black Republican in the US Senate, said, “This is the most racist thing I’ve seen out of this White House,” urging removal.
White House officials told multiple outlets that the post was shared “erroneously” by staff, though Trump refused to apologize from Air Force One. Republican leaders face mounting pressure to clarify their stance.
Party responses in the coming days may shape perceptions ahead of the 2026 midterm elections and influence broader discussions about social media governance, political rhetoric, and racial sensitivity in politics.
The incident underscores the persistent role of digital platforms in shaping political discourse and the challenges parties face in addressing racially charged content.
The reaction from both parties may serve as a barometer of accountability standards for elected officials and public figures in the United States.
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