Truth Social’s Chatbot Snubs Trump
In a surprising twist, Donald Trump’s own chatbot has praised one of his predecessors over him — and the former president probably isn’t thrilled. The AI tool, Truth Search, available to all users on Trump’s Truth Social platform, was asked: “Who is the most popular US president of this century?” Its answer sparked widespread attention.
AI Picks Obama Over Trump
Developed by Perplexity, Truth Search promises “direct, reliable answers” and aims to bring AI insights to users with important questions. Like other bots, it processes massive amounts of information from across the internet to generate conclusions. Its creators admit they cannot fully control its outputs, which has led to answers that contradict Trump’s public claims.
When asked about 21st-century presidential popularity, the chatbot explained:
“The answer depends on how ‘most popular’ is measured. Using standard approval metrics, George W. Bush holds the highest single-month peak approval (around 90% after 9/11), while Barack Obama has the highest sustained average favorability post-presidency among 21st‑century presidents.”
While the tool noted that “conservative commentators” often name Trump as the best, it made clear that different groups and surveys prioritize different qualities.
Truth Search Challenges Trump
This isn’t the first time Truth Search has contradicted the former president. It also stated that his new tariffs act as a tax on US citizens, the 2020 election was not stolen, and his family’s cryptocurrency investments raise conflict-of-interest concerns.
Social media users quickly reacted. One joked, “We need more chatbots like that.” Another quipped, “Someone’s getting fired,” while a third added, “Unlike Trump, it appears his chatbot speaks the truth.”
Obama Portrait Demoted
Meanwhile, reports reveal Trump has moved Obama’s presidential portrait to a restricted area in the White House. Initially displayed on the grand staircase in 2022, the picture now sits in a private space accessible only to select White House staff, Secret Service agents, and family members.
Trump’s close involvement in the White House decor has drawn social media backlash. One Reddit user called him “hilarious and insecure,” while another commented, “Hiding Obama’s portrait will not prevent him from living rent-free in Trump’s mind.”
Even California Governor Gavin Newsom criticized the move, tweeting: “Small men hide from history’s giants.”
The Takeaway
From AI contradictions to controversial portrait placements, Trump’s post-presidential actions continue to generate discussion. Meanwhile, Truth Search demonstrates the unpredictable power of AI, even when it works in the service of its creator.