Former United States President Barack Obama has issued his first public message since a controversial video shared on President Donald Trump’s social media platform depicted him and his wife, Michelle Obama, in a derogatory manner.
In a post on X on Saturday, Obama avoided addressing the video, which triggered widespread condemnation and accusations of racism. Instead, Obama turned attention to sports, praising American athletes as the 2026 Winter Olympics begin.
“To all the athletes representing @TeamUSA: I’m so proud of you. Your talent and perseverance have brought you to this moment, and Michelle and I will be joining Americans from across the country cheering you on,” Obama wrote.
The video in question was posted on Trump’s Truth Social account on Friday morning but was later deleted following intense public backlash.
Meanwhile, Pastor Mark Burns, a US-based cleric and Trump ally, said the president denied personally posting the clip. According to Burns, Trump attributed the post to a member of his staff.
