Controversial Video Sparks Nationwide Outrage
US President Donald Trump has come under intense criticism after sharing a controversial video on social media. The one-minute clip appeared on his Truth Social account on Thursday. It repeated false claims about Dominion Voting Systems and the 2020 presidential election. Towards the end, the video showed former President Barack Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama with their faces edited onto monkey bodies. The background music featured “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.” Soon after its release, the clip spread rapidly online. As a result, many users expressed anger and disappointment.
Democrats Call Post “Disgusting and Racist”
Several Democratic leaders strongly condemned Trump’s post. California Governor Gavin Newsom described the video as “disgusting behaviour.” He urged Republican leaders to publicly denounce it. Meanwhile, Ben Rhodes, a former adviser to Barack Obama, warned that such actions would damage Trump’s legacy. He said history would remember the Obamas as respected leaders. In contrast, he claimed Trump would be remembered negatively. Furthermore, many civil rights activists called the video racially offensive. They argued that it reinforced harmful stereotypes and deepened social divisions.
Misinformation and Election Claims Resurface
Apart from its offensive imagery, the video revived disputed claims about the 2020 election. It suggested that Dominion Voting Systems helped rig votes. However, courts and election officials have repeatedly rejected these allegations. Therefore, critics accused Trump of spreading misinformation again. According to media reports, the clip gained over 2,500 likes and more than 1,100 reposts within hours. Nevertheless, fact-checkers warned that such content undermines public trust in democratic institutions. Consequently, experts called for stronger action against false narratives online.
Political Impact and Growing Polarisation
The incident has once again highlighted deep political divisions in the United States. With the 2028 presidential race slowly taking shape, Trump’s social media activity remains under scrutiny. Analysts believe such posts energise his supporters. However, they also alienate moderate voters. Moreover, Democrats see the controversy as evidence of declining political standards. Many party leaders have urged social media platforms to enforce stricter policies. Meanwhile, Republican leaders have largely remained silent. As political tensions continue to rise, this episode reflects the growing challenges facing American democracy.
