Here’s what some Republican leaders are saying.
Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) recently weighed in on the surprising interaction between former President Obama and President-elect Donald Trump at the funeral for former President Jimmy Carter, calling it a moment of “redemption” for Obama. According to Mullin, what we witnessed was a symbolic act of Obama acknowledging Trump’s global popularity and influence, especially as the incoming president approaches his second term in office.
On a recent appearance on The Benny Show, Mullin explained that the interaction between the two former presidents was a clear indication that Obama was recognizing the powerful political comeback of Donald Trump, one of the most influential figures of our time. “What you’re seeing is Barack Obama realizing he probably needs to ‘kiss the ring,’” Mullin stated, adding that Trump is “the most popular man in the world” and likely “the most popular man in our lifetime around the world.” This moment, Mullin suggests, was a subtle acknowledgment from Obama that Trump’s political dominance can’t be ignored, despite the intense animosity that marked their previous exchanges.
The two men’s relationship was anything but cordial during the 2024 election cycle. Obama, who campaigned heavily for Vice President Kamala Harris, repeatedly criticized Trump, calling him dangerous and dishonest. During one campaign stop in Pennsylvania, Obama compared Trump to notorious dictator Fidel Castro, warning of the dangers of deception and dishonesty in leadership. Trump, for his part, fired back, calling Obama a “divider” and accusing him of undermining the country.
However, in a surprising turn of events, both men were seen smiling at each other at Carter’s funeral, a sharp contrast to the harsh rhetoric that had defined their political rivalry. Mullin views this interaction as a reflection of Trump’s position in the political arena—calm, relaxed, and unbothered by past grudges. “Trump is sitting in a good spot,” Mullin said. “He’s very relaxed, very happy, and ready to move forward. He’s put the past behind him.”
With just days until Trump’s second inauguration, Mullin’s remarks suggest that the incoming president is not only regaining respect but also poised to lead with confidence and a willingness to move past previous conflicts. In this moment of reconciliation, the political landscape seems to be shifting, with Trump maintaining his standing as one of the most powerful figures in modern American politics.
