During a White House luncheon on July 9, 2025, with African leaders, former U.S. President Donald Trump raised eyebrows after asking Liberian President Joseph Boakai where he learned to speak English “so beautifully” despite English being Liberia’s official language.
The conversation took place in the State Dining Room on Wednesday, after Boakai delivered his remarks in fluent English. Trump, seemingly impressed, commented, “Thank you, and such good English. Where did you learn to speak so beautifully?” Boakai chuckled, prompting Trump to press further: “Were you educated? Where?”
“Yes, sir,” Boakai replied.
“In Liberia?” Trump asked.
“Yes, sir,” the Liberian leader confirmed.
“That’s very interesting. It’s beautiful language,” Trump added. “I have people at this table who can’t speak nearly as well.”
Liberia was founded in the 19th century by formerly enslaved and freeborn African Americans with backing from the American Colonization Society. English was established as the official language after Liberia declared independence in 1847. While several Indigenous languages are spoken, English remains the dominant language in education and government.
President Boakai, whose life story is marked by perseverance, was born in the rural village of Warsonga. His government biography states that he walked more than 300 miles twice to Monrovia to pursue an education. After moving from home to home, he eventually enrolled at the College of West Africa, one of the country’s top secondary schools.
The exchange echoed past moments where Trump made public remarks about non-American accents. In a joint appearance with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Trump once told a reporter to “go louder” and asked for translation despite the question being asked in English. He also complimented an Afghan reporter’s “beautiful accent” before admitting, “I can’t understand a word you’re saying.”
While Trump’s comments about Boakai’s English appeared intended as praise, they inadvertently highlighted a lack of awareness about Liberia’s unique historical connection to the U.S. and the shared language that comes with it.
