Donald Trump and Barack Obama have long represented opposite ends of the political spectrum—and their public exchanges over the years have often reflected that divide. From policy disagreements to sharp public critiques, the relationship between the two former presidents has been anything but warm.
Yet during the funeral of former President Jimmy Carter in early 2024, an unexpected moment occurred that surprised many observers. A new political book titled 2024 by reporters Josh Dawsey, Tyler Pager, and Isaac Arnsdorf sheds light on what may have been said during that rare face-to-face encounter.
A Long History of Tension
The public tension between Trump and Obama stretches back over a decade. In 2011, Trump became a prominent voice questioning then-President Obama’s U.S. citizenship—an issue that had already been addressed by official records confirming Obama was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, in 1961. Despite this, Trump continued to question the documentation, even suggesting he would send investigators to Hawaii and offering $5 million to charity if he were proven wrong.
For his part, Obama has occasionally responded to Trump’s leadership and policy decisions with pointed remarks. At a college event in New York earlier this year, Obama criticized what he described as a shift in presidential norms and expectations. Though he did not mention Trump by name, his remarks were widely interpreted as commentary on the political environment Trump helped shape.
A Quiet Moment at a National Event
Despite their differences, both leaders were among the dignitaries in attendance at the funeral for President Jimmy Carter. Former Presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Joe Biden were also present. Observers noted a surprising moment between Trump and Obama during the service—photos captured them in a light conversation, even sharing a laugh.
According to the authors of 2024, Trump reportedly took the opportunity to extend a friendly gesture. He invited Obama to join him for a round of golf, offering glowing descriptions of several of his golf properties around the world.
“He sat next to Barack Obama and invited him to play golf, enticing him with descriptions of Trump’s courses,” the book states.
While it’s unclear whether Obama responded to the invitation—or whether the two ever met privately—the moment offered a rare glimpse of civility between two political figures with a long and complicated history.
Respect Amid Differences
Presidential funerals often serve as moments of unity, setting aside political differences to honor a shared commitment to public service. For a brief time, it appeared that even long-standing rivals could exchange words in a setting focused on respect and remembrance.
While the details of their conversation remain private, this moment underscores that even in today’s divided political climate, there can still be room for dialogue.