Image Credit: X account @WhiteHouse
Trump Slams Obama Over 2009 Nobel, Claims It Was “Free”
U.S. President Donald Trump sharply criticized Barack Obama on Wednesday, saying Obama “got [the Nobel Peace Prize] for nothing.” Trump’s remarks came as he continues to press his own candidacy for this year’s prize.
Trump’s Accusation
Trump accused Obama of not deserving the Nobel Peace Prize awarded in 2009, calling the decision a political gift rather than merit-based. He said he believes his own diplomatic work—especially in mediating conflicts and the Gaza ceasefire—makes him more deserving.
Obama’s 2009 Nobel Explained
Barack Obama received the Nobel Peace Prize in 2009, only months into his presidency, for his “extraordinary efforts to strengthen international diplomacy and cooperation between peoples.” However, the award drew criticism at the time for being premature and symbolic. Obama himself later expressed surprise at winning.
Trump’s Own Campaign and Odds
Trump has repeatedly sought to tie his peace initiatives—such as engagement in Middle East diplomacy—to Nobel credentials. Still, experts view his chances as slim, pointing to the Nobel Committee’s preference for sustained, multilateral peace efforts over political self-promotion. Nominations for 2025 closed early in the year, and while multiple leaders have endorsed Trump, none of these guarantees a win.
