In a rare public response, former President Barack Obama has addressed Donald Trump’s baseless claim that he committed treason by trying to “steal” the 2016 election.
Trump, 79, made the accusation on July 22, alleging—without evidence—that the Obama administration manipulated intelligence to suggest Russian interference. Obama’s office, usually silent on Trump’s attacks, called the claims “bizarre” and “ridiculous.”
Spokesman Patrick Rodenbush said the allegations were a “weak attempt at distraction,” citing a 2020 bipartisan Senate report confirming Russia tried to influence the election in Trump’s favor, though it did not alter any votes.
The claims echo recent comments from Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, who accused Obama officials of a “treasonous conspiracy” and threatened legal action. Russia continues to deny any interference.
The controversy resurfaces amid tensions in Trump’s base, following Attorney General Pam Bondi’s reversal on the Epstein case, stating no “client list” would be released.