Here’s what was allegedly said.
At former President Jimmy Carter’s funeral, the brief but intriguing interaction between former President Barack Obama and President-elect Donald Trump drew attention. On the surface, the two men appeared to engage in friendly conversation, exchanging smiles and laughter, but a closer look reveals a more serious undertone.
According to forensic lip reader Jeremy Freeman, Trump, now 78, leaned in toward Obama, 63, and quietly mentioned that they would need to “find a quiet place” later to discuss something “important.” The remark was made as the two were seated side by side, likely aware of the cameras capturing the moment. It’s unclear exactly what “important” matter they were referencing, but Freeman’s lip reading suggests it was related to international agreements, a topic of significant difference between the two men during their respective presidencies.
Trump, known for his strong stance on withdrawing from key global accords, notably pulled the U.S. out of Obama’s 2015 Iran nuclear deal and the 2016 Paris Climate Agreement during his first term. At one point during their exchange, Trump reportedly told Obama, “I’ve pulled out of that. It’s the conditions. Can you imagine that?” It’s possible this remark was in reference to those international pacts or other policies, though we can only speculate on the specifics.
As the conversation continued, Trump and Obama seemed to agree that the discussion should take place later, away from the public eye. Trump even gave Obama his assurance: “Call me at the foyer after, yep,” likely referring to the National Cathedral’s foyer, where private conversations could take place out of earshot of the cameras.
The relationship between Trump and Obama has been marked by tension, especially over Trump’s promotion of the “birther” movement and his accusations that Obama spied on his campaign during the 2016 election. Their mutual disdain became even more evident as Obama, during the 2020 Democratic National Convention, mocked Trump for his obsession with crowd sizes and long-winded speeches.
Despite the personal animosity and political differences, the exchange at Carter’s funeral hints at a more cordial moment. It’s a reminder that, despite the rhetoric and years of political division, leaders can find moments of common ground—at least when it comes to addressing matters of national and international importance. Time will tell what, exactly, the two men discussed in their private conversation, but it’s clear that beneath the surface, there are significant issues that warrant their attention.