Trump Refuses to Apologize for Deleted Truth Social Video Depicting Obamas as Apes, Blames Staffer and Denies Mistake

 

President Donald Trump has declined to apologize for sharing — and later deleting — a controversial video on his Truth Social platform that featured a racist depiction of former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama as apes.

The video, posted late Thursday evening, included an abrupt animation where the Obamas' faces were superimposed onto animated ape bodies in a jungle scene, set to the tune of "The Lion Sleeps Tonight." It was part of a longer clip that appeared to originate from a pro-Trump or MAGA-related account, possibly as a meme or parody.

The post sparked swift condemnation across political lines, with critics labeling it a blatant use of a historical racist trope that has long been used to dehumanize people of African descent. Even some Republicans, including Sen. Tim Scott of South Carolina, publicly called for its removal, describing it as potentially the "most racist thing" seen from the White House.

By Friday morning, the White House had taken down the video after roughly 12 hours online. Press Secretary [or relevant spokesperson] initially pushed back against criticism but later attributed the posting to a staff error.

Speaking to reporters on Air Force One en route to Florida on Friday, Trump addressed the controversy directly. He insisted he had not viewed the full video before it was shared, saying he only saw the initial portion, which he deemed acceptable. "Somebody slipped and missed a very small part," he remarked.

When pressed on whether he would apologize — amid calls from both parties — Trump was unequivocal: "No, I didn't make a mistake." He added that he condemned the racist imagery, stating, "Of course I do," but maintained no personal fault.

The episode has reignited debates over Trump's history of controversial rhetoric and social media use, particularly regarding race. Critics argue the incident reflects a pattern, while supporters may view it as another example of media overreaction to a staff oversight.

No further statements have been issued from the Obamas or the White House as of Saturday morning. The event continues to dominate political discourse in the early days of Trump's second term.