Lip reader claims to reveal what Obama and Bush said at Trump’s inauguration
Alleged conversation between former presidents sparks curiosity and debate online.
A lip reader claims former President Obama asked George W. Bush, “How can we stop what’s happening?” during Donald Trump’s swearing-in ceremony.
Donald Trump was sworn in as the 47th President of the United States on Monday, January 20. Among those in attendance were several former presidents and first ladies, including Barack Obama, George W. and Laura Bush, and Bill and Hillary Clinton.
A deaf woman and self-taught lip reader, Jackie G (@tismejackieg on Instagram), shared what she believes was said between Obama and Bush during the ceremony. According to her, the interaction began with Obama greeting Bush warmly with a “Good to see you” and a nod of thanks. Then, in a moment of candid conversation, Obama allegedly turned to Bush with a smile and asked, “How can we stop what’s happening?”
Jackie posted a video of the moment, humorously captioning it: “Obama ‘just barely’ behaving.”
The lighthearted banter between Obama and Bush
The playful dynamic between Obama and Bush didn’t end there. After leaving the Capitol Rotunda, Barack Obama was asked by Washington Post reporter Emily Davies if Bush had “behaved” during Trump’s swearing-in ceremony. Obama’s response was quick and witty: “Just barely.”
This comment echoed a lighthearted moment captured earlier, where a staff member had jokingly asked Bush, “Are you going to behave?” Obama reportedly chimed in on Bush’s behalf, saying, “Nope.”
Social media exploded with reactions to these exchanges. One Instagram user commented, “This is amazing. You are amazing,” while another added, “Laughing and crying at the same time.” Jackie G, however, made sure to clarify that lip reading isn’t a foolproof method, stating: “All statements are alleged.”
The noticeable absence of Michelle Obama
While Obama attended the ceremony alone, his wife, Michelle Obama, was notably absent—a decision that puzzled many viewers. Speculation swirled online, with some pointing to Michelle’s well-documented distaste for Trump. A source told PEOPLE that the former First Lady has no interest in masking her true feelings for the former president, even for the sake of protocol.
“There’s no overstating her feelings about [Trump],” the source explained. “Michelle doesn’t do anything because it’s expected or it’s tradition. She would be expected to swallow her feelings in the spotlight if she attended his second inauguration.”
Michelle’s absence echoed a similar situation earlier this month when she missed former President Jimmy Carter’s state funeral due to a “scheduling conflict.” At the time, she was reportedly vacationing in Hawaii.
Trump’s first day back – executive orders that stir controversy
While much of the inauguration chatter revolved around the interactions between former presidents, Donald Trump wasted no time in making headlines with his policy decisions on Day 1.
Key orders signed by Trump:
- Gender policy: Trump signed an order declaring that only two genders—male and female—will be recognized by federal agencies. This move will eliminate funding for programs promoting gender diversity.
- Free speech protections: Trump issued an order to ensure that the federal government does not censor Americans’ speech, calling it a restoration of free speech rights.
- Immigration: Declaring illegal immigration a “national emergency,” Trump announced plans to halt illegal entry and reverse several Biden-era policies.
- Death penalty: Trump reinstated the federal death penalty, declaring it an “essential tool for punishing heinous crimes.”
- Energy policy: He vowed to expand energy production by lifting bans on drilling in areas like Alaska, stating this would lower energy costs and make the U.S. a “rich nation again.”
Perhaps the most eyebrow-raising move was Trump’s executive order to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the “Gulf of America,” a symbolic gesture that doesn’t affect its international recognition.
View this post on Instagram
The internet reacts
Social media has been a hotbed of debate over both the former presidents’ interactions and Trump’s latest policies. While some praised the humorous exchange between Obama and Bush as a moment of levity in a tense political climate, others criticized Trump’s policies as polarizing and divisive.
One thing is clear—whether through lighthearted banter or bold executive orders, the 47th President’s inauguration will not soon be forgotten.
As political traditions continue to evolve and provoke reactions, moments like these remind us of the humanity behind the headlines. What’s your take—should past presidents maintain a united front, or is honesty about their feelings just as important? Share your thoughts below.
