Who is Malik Obama? Barack Obama's half-brother now backs Donald Trump following Tim Walz family controversy

Malik Obama, the Kenyan-American businessman and half-brother of former President Barack Obama, has reportedly announced his endorsement of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump. This endorsement comes amid the buzz generated by a viral photo showing Tim Walz’s distant family in “Walz’s For Trump” T-shirts, adding a layer of intrigue to Malik's decision.
On social media platform X, Malik Obama made his position clear: “I am Malik Obama.I’m a registered Republican and I’m voting for President Donald Trump.”

Who is Malik Obama?
Malik Obama, a Kenyan-American businessman and philanthropist, has made headlines for his unexpected political endorsements and personal controversies. Born in Kenya and now a US citizen, Malik serves as the lead ambassador for Puppet, a software configuration management tool. His career in the US includes roles at prominent organizations like the American Red Cross, Lockheed Martin, and Fannie Mae.
Malik’s connection to Barack Obama is well-known. He once ran for governor in Siaya, Kenya—his father’s hometown—but garnered only 1% of the vote. Despite the electoral setback, Malik’s ambitions have continued to span both continents.
A personal life diverging from American norms
Malik Obama’s personal life is marked by controversy. Reports from 2012 suggested he had twelve wives, though Malik has refuted this, claiming to have three. His lifestyle and values often clash with traditional American norms, contributing to his complex public persona.

A strained relationship with Barack Obama
Malik Obama’s relationship with his half-brother Barack has been fraught with tension. Once a best man at Barack’s wedding, Malik’s bond with the former president has deteriorated over the years. In a 2013 GQ profile, Malik attributed their shared leadership qualities to genetics, but their relationship has since soured. Malik has criticized Barack for not supporting a foundation he established in their father’s name and has voiced dissatisfaction with aspects of Barack’s presidency, particularly US actions in Libya.

“My brother didn’t help me at all,” Malik told the New York Post. “He wanted me to shut it down when I set it up. He hasn’t supported me at all.”
Why Trump?
Malik Obama’s support for Donald Trump is rooted in several factors. A supporter of Trump since 2016, Malik attended a Las Vegas debate organized by the Trump campaign and has praised Trump’s straightforwardness and campaign slogan, “Make America Great Again.” He has also expressed skepticism about allegations of sexual assault against Trump and opposes the expansion of LGBT rights—a cause championed by Barack Obama. Malik’s disappointment with the US intervention that led to Muammar Gaddafi’s death further solidifies his support for Trump.
“I like Donald Trump because he speaks from the heart,” Malik told The Post in 2016. “Make America Great Again is a great slogan. I would like to meet him.”
Malik’s endorsement of Trump is particularly striking given the broader Obama family's differing views. Barack Obama’s uncle, Said Obama, has openly criticized Trump’s divisive approach, highlighting the family’s political rift.
Controversies and public scrutiny
Malik Obama’s support for Trump also intersects with personal controversies. He has faced allegations of domestic abuse and attracted media attention in 2011 for marrying a teenage girl.