Trump Asks Liberian President Where He Learned English During White House Meeting
Trump’s remark draws awkward chuckles after questioning Liberian President Boakai’s English fluency — despite English being Liberia’s official language
- Trump asked Liberian President Boakai where he learned to speak English so fluently
- Boakai replied, “In Liberia,” prompting light laughter
- English is Liberia’s official language, due to its historical ties with the U.S.
During a White House lunch with several African leaders, former U.S. President Donald Trump raised eyebrows after making a surprising remark to Liberian President Joseph Boakai about his English-speaking skills.
President Boakai, while addressing the gathering in fluent English—Liberia’s official language—commended the U.S. and expressed support for Trump’s policies. “Liberia is a longtime friend of the United States and we believe in your policy of making America great again,” he said, advocating for stronger U.S. investment in Liberia.
Trump, seemingly surprised by Boakai’s fluency, responded:
“Such good English,” he remarked. “Where did you learn to speak so beautifully?”
Boakai replied with a smile, “In Liberia, sir.”
Trump continued, “That’s very interesting. I have people at this table who can’t speak nearly as well.”
Though the exchange drew chuckles in the moment, it stirred reactions online and among commentators, given Liberia’s deep historical ties to the U.S. and the fact that English is its official language. Liberia was founded in the 19th century as a colony for freed Black Americans, with English naturally becoming the national language.
The moment, while lighthearted on the surface, reignited debate about Trump’s understanding of global history and diplomacy.
