Donald Trump leveraged the birther conspiracy, claiming Barack Obama wasn't born in the U.S., to elevate his political standing and gain support from extremist factions. This racist strategy was intended to undermine the legitimacy of America's first Black president and solidified his appeal among elements of the right. Following the 2011 White House Correspondents Dinner, Trump's animosity towards Obama intensified, leading to a bitter campaign for the presidency. The election was later confirmed to have been influenced by Russian interference, benefiting Trump's campaign.
The birther conspiracy was not just a harmless political jab. It was designed to delegitimize the nation's first Black president in the eyes of white America.
Trump’s relentless questioning of Obama’s citizenship signaled to millions that he was willing to say what others wouldn’t, endearing him to the most toxic elements of the right.
It was sinister. It was racist - that bears repeating. And it worked. Trump's claims elevated him into the political spotlight and eventually led him to the 2016 Republican primaries.
That election, as confirmed by both U.S. intelligence and bipartisan Senate findings, was hijacked by foreign interference. Russia did interfere in the 2016 election to help Donald Trump.
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