In a recent episode of the “SmartLess” podcast, former President Barack Obama openly criticized former President Donald Trump, questioning his seriousness and reliability as a businessman in New York. The podcast, which featured actors Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, and Sean Hayes, was recorded in March and released this Monday, April 29. Alongside Obama, the episode also featured President Joe Biden and former President Bill Clinton.
During the discussion, Obama shared his perspective on Trump’s ascent in political and business arenas, expressing surprise at the internal dynamics within the Republican Party that facilitated Trump’s rise. “Trump didn’t surprise me,” Obama stated. He elaborated that Trump’s reputation in New York was already well-known, noting, “You watch Trump’s campaign, you watch his career, he’s never changed.”
Obama’s remarks underscored a longstanding skepticism about Trump’s business dealings in his home state. “I mean, he comes from New York. There’s nobody in New York who does business with him or will lend him money. He is not considered a serious guy here,” Obama added.
The former president also expressed his astonishment at Trump’s election despite these widely recognized traits, and the lack of opposition within his party to some of Trump’s more controversial actions, including his favorable comments towards Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The conversation also touched on the broader implications of Trump’s presidency on democratic norms and the role of the Republican Party. Obama’s disappointment was palpable as he discussed the absence of significant internal resistance to Trump within the GOP, which he had anticipated.
In February, a significant legal judgment against Trump came to light when Judge Arthur Engoron ordered Trump to pay $355 million in penalties after finding him guilty in a civil fraud trial in New York. This judgment related to years of overvaluing his company’s assets to secure loans and deal-making advantages. This legal trouble underscores the ongoing challenges Trump faces, including a current trial in Manhattan concerning hush money payments.
The podcast not only provided a platform for these political discussions but also delved into media representation and bias. Obama defended media outlets like The New York Times and MSNBC against accusations of partisan bias, emphasizing their adherence to factual reporting despite criticisms of their political leanings.
This episode of “SmartLess” breaks the podcast’s tradition by inviting repeat guests, this time to share insights from three former presidents, highlighting their views on current political dynamics and challenges in governance.
The portrayal of Trump by Obama in this podcast episode offers a stark reminder of the complexities and controversies surrounding Trump’s business practices and his political legacy, resonating with ongoing legal and public debates about his conduct and integrity.