Former President Donald Trump has addressed a widely circulated moment from the 2011 White House Correspondents’ Dinner, where then-President Barack Obama publicly mocked him. At the time, Trump had gained notoriety for promoting the false “birther” conspiracy, which questioned Obama’s U.S. citizenship.

To settle the issue, Obama released his full birth certificate. Trump took credit for the release, calling it a personal victory. However, during the dinner, Obama sarcastically praised Trump for his “success,” joking that Trump could now focus on “more pressing matters,” like the moon landing and the whereabouts of Biggie and Tupac.

Obama also took jabs at Trump’s reality TV role on Celebrity Apprentice, mocking his decision-making style. Comedian Seth Meyers followed with even sharper jokes, implying Trump’s presidential ambitions were a punchline. Trump appeared visibly uncomfortable, and many believe the humiliation spurred his eventual run for president.

Recently, Trump addressed the incident in a video posted on Truth Social, calling it “the beginning” of his political journey rather than the end. He framed the event as a turning point, not a moment of defeat.

Trump’s comments come amid renewed attacks on Obama, including accusations of treason and the circulation of a deepfake video showing Obama being arrested. These moves have reignited controversy around the former president’s rhetoric and use of misinformation.

The 2011 roast remains a defining pop culture moment, often viewed as the spark that lit Trump’s political ambitions. Whether meant to mock or challenge, the dinner arguably pushed Trump from media figure to serious political contender.

As Trump ramps up his campaign activity, the shadow of that evening continues to loom—reminding the public how personal grievances and public spectacle can intersect in American politics.