The moment we’ve all dreaded is upon us: We’re replacing America’s first black president with its first orange one. Over the next four years, we can “look forward” to having no health care, exacerbated climate change, privatized schools (and increased student debt), more endangered and extinct species, and of course, the rise of hate crimes. But while the memory is still fresh, let’s take time to relish our seven favorite Obama clapbacks, when he was almost (but never actually) petty, and had us nodding along like crazy:
7. "Hillary, I'm looking forward to you advising me as well."
6. "I mean it's like some 'Love and Hip-Hop' stuff."
When Clinton and Trump were sparring off in what felt like the most contentious presidential race in history, Obama took the time to compare the campaigns to Love and Hip Hop.
5. "Don't boo—vote."
4. "I like to know what I'm talking about before I speak."
3. "I know because I won both of them."
2. The Boss
With more and more celebrities speaking out against Trump including Meryl Streep and YG, artists have also taken a stance by refusing to perform at his inauguration. After a Bruce Springsteen cover band—not even the actual musician—pulled out of the inauguration line-up, Obama thanked his staff by having the Boss himself play a two-hour set.
1. "If folks wanna pop off..."
In November 2015, a CNN reporter asked President Obama, “Why can’t we take out these bastards?” about ISIS. Obama replied, “If folks want to pop off and have opinions about what they think they would do, present a specific plan.”
We collectively lost our shit with Twitterstorms and even one amazing remix.
Summary of Obama's remarks at today's press conference: https://t.co/CxwQHYTUJv
— Donovan X. Ramsey (@iDXR) November 16, 2015
While we have four years of rolling back human rights ahead of us, we should have faith that there’s still hope. The majority of millennials voted against Donald Trump and today’s protesters are made up of many young people. If the youth and the next generation of Obama’s are any indicator—our future is still bright.
Malia Obama is the real MVP. "Smoking Kills" lmao 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/3cpOVuUcaX
— Geeks Of Color (@GeeksOfColor) September 5, 2016