Key facts
- The Obama Presidential Center has opened in Chicago.
- Exhibits focus on democratic values and policy achievements of the Obama administration.
- Obama emphasized principles such as the rule of law, checks and balances, and the peaceful transfer of power.
- He made veiled criticisms of the Trump administration's approach to governance and values.
- Former Presidents Biden, Clinton, and George W. Bush attended the opening.
The Obama Presidential Center has officially opened in Chicago, with exhibits designed to highlight the policy achievements and democratic values of the Obama administration. Former President Barack Obama, during the opening ceremony, made veiled criticisms of the current Trump administration, emphasizing principles such as the rule of law, checks and balances, and the peaceful transfer of power.
Obama invoked the words of the Declaration of Independence, stating that the nation was founded on the idea that "there will be no kings or lords, but only citizens." He stressed the importance of "intrinsic dignity and worth of all people," an "accountability that comes with" checks and balances, an independent judiciary, and a free press. He also noted that allegiance is owed to the Constitution, not to any president or political party, and acknowledged that in a diverse society, compromise is necessary.
These remarks follow recent comments by Obama where he criticized institutions for succumbing to the allure of money, attention, and fame. The opening ceremony was attended by former Presidents Joe Biden, Bill Clinton, and George W. Bush. A recent CNN poll indicated Obama remains the most popular among surviving former presidents, with 57 percent holding a favorable view, compared to 34 percent for Trump and 30 percent for Biden.