House Minority Leader Drops F-Bomb on Trump Over Racist Video

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House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries recently caused a stir by using profanity to condemn President Trump's reposting of a video depicting Barack and Michelle Obama as apes. While emotional outbursts are typically taboo for party leaders, Jeffries' reaction suggests a shift in the political landscape, as Trump's authoritarian impulses have started to alienate even some of his traditional white supporters.

Why it matters

Jeffries' use of the f-bomb against Trump is significant because it reflects a growing backlash from white Americans who are growing increasingly uncomfortable with the president's willingness to apply the same harsh treatment to them that has historically been reserved for marginalized groups. As Trump's policies and rhetoric begin to impact 'respectable' white people, it is undermining their faith in institutions like law enforcement that have traditionally shielded them from such treatment.

The details

In response to Trump reposting a video depicting the Obamas as apes, Jeffries released his own video saying 'f--- Donald Trump.' While emotional outbursts are typically taboo for party leaders, Jeffries' reaction suggests a shift in the political landscape. Trump's authoritarian impulses, which have historically been directed at marginalized groups, are now starting to impact 'respectable' white people, undermining their faith in institutions like law enforcement that have traditionally shielded them from such treatment.

• On February 13, 2026, Hakeem Jeffries released a video condemning Trump's reposting of the racist video.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The political fallout from Jeffries' comments and Trump's actions will likely continue to unfold, with potential impacts on the upcoming midterm elections.