What to watch
Best streaming guide in the US
Former President Barack Obama responded to a controversial video shared by President Donald Trump, calling it a "weak attempt at distraction."
The video, which Trump posted to Truth Social in early February 2026, featured AI-generated imagery that depicted Barack and Michelle Obama as monkeys.
While the White House initially dismissed the backlash as "fake outrage" and later blamed an unnamed staffer for the post, Barack Obama suggested the move intended to shift public focus away from more pressing national issues.
In an interview with progressive YouTuber Brian Tyler Cohen on Saturday, February 14, 2026, Barack Obama addressed the current political climate and the recent actions of the administration.
He specifically highlighted the "unprecedented nature" of recent federal enforcement operations in Minneapolis and St. Paul.
Protests have grown in the Twin Cities following the deaths of two individuals during immigration enforcement actions.
Barack Obama praised the citizens for standing up for their values and noted that public pressure recently led the administration to draw down its crackdown in the area.
The video that sparked the latest exchange depicted several prominent Democrats as animals, with Donald Trump portrayed as a lion.
The depiction of the Obamas as primates drew condemnation from both Democratic and Republican lawmakers, including Senator Tim Scott, who called it "the most racist thing" he had seen from the White House.
Although the post remained on the president's account for approximately twelve hours before its removal, Donald Trump later claimed he had not seen the offensive portion of the clip before sharing it.
Barack Obama’s response emphasizes his belief that the administration uses such controversies to divert attention from dropping approval ratings and unpopular policies.
He pointed to the ongoing protests in Minnesota as a sign that the American people are actively testing the limits of federal authority.
As the administration continues to face scrutiny over its immigration tactics and the handling of various federal files, the former president urged citizens to stay engaged.
The exchange marks one of the most direct confrontations between the two leaders since the beginning of the current term.
