Barack Obama blasted Donald Trump who questioned whether he is more Greek than NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo, to send a clear message to the Black and Latino voters on Sunday.
He warned them about voting for a person who is disregarding them and can’t even fathom that a Greek person can be black.
During a Kamala Harris rally in Milwaukee, the former US President told the crowd that the answer to their problems was not Trump. “Why would you think the answer is to vote for someone who has a long history of demeaning and disregarding your communities?” he pondered.
“Who cannot apparently understand how an NBA superstar can be both Greek and Black? Who suggests that any Mexican crossing the border is a criminal and a rapist. Who spreads ridiculous fantasies that Haitians eat people’s pets?” Obama said.
Trump causes controversy over Greek Antetokounmpo
The controversy about race and ethnicity erupted during Trump’s recent rally in Milwaukee.
In addressing his followers, Trump said, “Your team is very good. I would say the Greek is a seriously good player” and then proceeded to make his controversial remarks.
“Tell me, who has more Greek in him, the Greek or me?” Trump inquired. The crowd seemed to freeze at that point, with Trump immediately adding: “I think we have about the same, right?”
As there was no reaction from the crowd, Trump added, “Maybe he is the best player in the NBA.”
Trump didn’t even address Antetokounmpo by his name.
The former president’s remark sparked a heated debate in the US and Greece about the intent behind his peculiar remarks.
Trump has no connection to Greece whatsoever. However, Antetokounmpo was born and raised in Greece, is a Greek citizen, speaks Greek fluently, and represents Greece’s national basketball team proudly.
The only difference is that Antetokounmpo has Nigerian heritage, as he is the son of two Nigerian migrants who moved to Athens decades ago.
Antetokounmpo responds
Following a Milwaukee Bucks‘ game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Antetokounmpo was asked about Trump’s remarks at a press conference.
The “Greek Freak,” as Antetokounmpo is often referred to, stated that he was unaware of former President Trump’s comments and explained that he doesn’t follow politics closely.
“At the end of the day, I don’t follow politics that much,” Giannis said. “I’m here to win basketball games and not answer non-basketball questions.” He added that he wished both political candidates the best of luck and did not engage further in the discussion.
