Trump says he could work with Jeffries if Democrats win House

In an interview published on Friday, August 7, 2026, President Donald Trump offered conciliatory remarks about House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, suggesting the two could work together constructively if Democrats win control of the House in the upcoming midterm elections. The comments, made during a conversation with Punchbowl News, mark a significant shift from the president's previous, often harsh, criticisms of the Democratic leader.

Trump described Jeffries as a "nice guy" and recalled a 2025 White House meeting between them as having been positive. He framed their public clashes as a standard feature of partisan politics rather than a reflection of personal animosity. "Hes harsh on me because Im harsh on him," Trump said. "Ive said bad things about him." When asked directly if he could do business with Jeffries should the New York Democrat become Speaker, Trump replied, "Yeah, I think so," adding, "I probably get along with him very well."

This stands in contrast to a long history of pointed attacks. Trump has previously labeled Jeffries a "low I.Q. individual" and shared manipulated imagery mocking him. For his part, Jeffries has been a consistent and vocal critic of...