Obama Condemns Racist Meme, Urges Civic Decency

Former U.S. President Barack Obama has broken his public silence on a viral racist “ape” meme associated with Donald Trump, addressing the issue during a recent podcast interview with Brian Tyler Cohen.

Speaking calmly, Obama said the behavior reflected a broader “clown show” culture driven by social media attention and a loss of decorum. While acknowledging that such content draws clicks and outrage, he emphasized that most Americans find it deeply troubling and do not approve of it.

“I think it’s important to recognize that the majority of the American people find this behavior deeply troubling,” Obama said, adding that the ultimate response will come from voters themselves. He argued that public accountability — not constant outrage — remains the most effective remedy.

Obama also pointed to recent community actions in Minneapolis and St. Paul following federal immigration enforcement activity, praising residents who supported affected families, accompanied children to school, and protested peacefully in harsh winter conditions. He described the response as sustained, civic-minded behavior that demonstrates how democracy functions when citizens remain engaged.

The remarks underscored Obama’s broader message: that political noise may dominate headlines, but lasting change is driven by everyday acts of decency, participation, and collective responsibility.