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Former US President Donald Trump has drawn widespread criticism after sharing an AI generated video that depicts former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama as apes.
The video appeared during a late night posting spree on Trump’s Truth Social account, where he shared dozens of posts in a short period. The clip quickly spread across social media and triggered strong reactions from political figures and the public.
Video Shared on Truth Social
The one minute video shows several political figures in a parody setting inspired by The Lion King. At the end of the clip, a short scene portrays Barack and Michelle Obama as apes dancing in a jungle environment while music plays in the background.
Online users traced the clip to a meme that first appeared on social media months earlier. The version Trump shared carried a watermark from a little known website, PatriotNewsOutlet.com.
White House officials later confirmed the clip came from an internet meme originally posted on X.
White House Responds to Criticism
A White House spokesperson said the video was meant as a meme portraying Trump as the “King of the Jungle” and political opponents as cartoon characters.
The spokesperson urged critics to focus on issues they believe matter more to Americans, rather than the social media post.
Political Leaders Condemn the Post
Despite the explanation, the post drew sharp criticism.
California Governor Gavin Newsom’s office described the video as offensive and called on Republican leaders to denounce it. Political commentators also said the clip crossed a line by using racial imagery against the Obamas.
Many social media users questioned why such content appeared on the account of a former US president.
Not the First AI Video Involving Obama
This is not the first time Trump has shared AI generated content involving Barack Obama.
In the past, Trump posted a fake video showing Obama being arrested in the Oval Office. That clip also drew backlash and raised concerns about the growing use of artificial intelligence in political messaging.
Growing Debate Over AI in Politics
The latest incident adds to a wider debate about the role of AI generated media in politics. Experts warn that manipulated videos can mislead audiences and inflame tensions, especially during election periods.
Platforms and governments continue to face pressure to limit the spread of misleading digital content.
Conclusion
Trump’s decision to share the AI video of Barack and Michelle Obama has triggered renewed debate over online conduct and the use of artificial intelligence in politics. As reactions continue, the episode highlights how social media posts by public figures can quickly escalate into national controversy.
