A Tale Of Two Raids: How Trump And Obama Helmed Their Missions

October 28, 2019 4:23 p.m.

The last time the American public learned that its government had carried out a top-secret, high-risk raid to execute a primary terrorist enemy, it was 2011. President Barack Obama was in the White House.

The night before the raid, Obama was out of the office delivering a soon-to-be infamous roast at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner, pillorying a stone-faced Donald Trump who’d for months spearheaded the racist birtherism conspiracy theory.

This is a members-only article

Small Team. Big Results.

We’re proud of what our small newsroom has accomplished and it’s not hyperbole when we say that without our members, none of this would be possible.

Become a TPM Member

Free memberships available for students and those experiencing financial hardship.

Already a member? SIGN IN