White House reacts to backlash caused by racist video of Obamas depicted as monkeys shared by Trump.

During Black History Month, Donald Trump stirred controversy by sharing a video on Truth Social that depicts Barack and Michelle Obama as monkeys using AI technology. The video promotes false claims about Dominion Voting Systems and features racist imagery at the end.

Trump posted the video during an overnight social media spree, garnering over 2,500 likes and 1,100 reposts by Friday morning. The clip shows the Obamas' faces superimposed on monkeys dancing to “The Lion Sleeps Tonight.”

California Governor Gavin Newsom's press office condemned the video, calling it “disgusting behavior” and urging all Republicans to denounce it. Critics denounced the use of dehumanizing caricatures as blatant racism, emphasizing the historical context of such imagery.

Former Obama advisor Ben Rhodes criticized Trump, predicting that future generations will cherish the Obamas while viewing Trump as a blemish on history. The White House press secretary attempted to downplay the outrage, claiming the video was part of an internet meme depicting Trump as the “King of the Jungle.”

This incident highlights concerns about the use of AI to propagate racism and prejudice. As the nation reflects on Black Americans' history and dignity this month, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing battle against such attacks.