WASHINGTON — Former President Barack Obama made an unexpected return to the White House on Thursday, May 23.
President Joe Biden and First Lady Dr. Jill Biden hosted a state dinner in honor of Kenyan President William Ruto and First Lady Rachel Ruto. The guest list, which included prominent figures such as former President Bill Clinton, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, actor LeVar Burton, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell, NBA Commissioner Adam Silver, and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, did not initially include Obama.
“There is a bright light at the White House tonight,” Biden said during his toast to President Ruto. “Jill and I are honored to have you here.”
Biden noted the significant presence of the African diaspora at the event, mentioning Obama's brief visit. “Obama just left,” Biden joked, adding that the former president was "very gracious" and had met with Ruto prior to the dinner.
White House officials confirmed that Obama attended a reception in the Blue Room before making a brief appearance in the dinner area.
In his toast, Biden emphasized the strong respect the U.S. holds for Kenya, reminiscing about the time when former President Jimmy Carter hosted Kenyan leaders for the first time.
The evening concluded with Biden's heartfelt words: "Until we meet again, may God hold you in the palm of his hand - to Kenya, to our guests.”