Full Breakdown
Trump Says He Could Work With Jeffries If Democrats Win the House
8/7/2026, 11:16:07 PM
Core Event
In an interview with Punchbowl News aired early Friday, former President Donald Trump said he would “probably get along” with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) if Democrats retake the House in the 2026 midterm elections. Trump described Jeffries as “a nice guy” and recalled a 2025 White House meeting, noting that their past “harsh” exchanges would not necessarily prevent cooperation.
Political Background and Recent Polls
The remarks come as Democrats maintain a lead over Republicans in generic-ballot polling ahead of the 2026 midterms. An ACNN poll released last week showed Democrats ahead by eight points, while the Decision Desk HQ average placed the margin at just over six points. Historically, the party of a sitting president tends to lose seats in midterm contests, a trend analysts cite when projecting a competitive House race.
Official Statements & Responses
Trump emphasized that mutual criticism is “part of the world,” suggesting personal animosities could be set aside for legislative business. He also warned that many conservative voters are “angry at Republicans” for not fully advancing his agenda, though he claimed they are not angry at him personally. The former president declined to endorse Senate Majority Leader John Thune for another term, citing frustrations with stalled voting-restriction legislation and the filibuster. Jeffries has previously labeled Trump’s behavior as “Jeffries derangement syndrome,” a play on “Trump derangement syndrome,” and has mocked Trump’s past attacks, including a low-IQ insult.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’d probably get along with him very well,” — Jeffries. Trump, president
- “People are harsh on me. I’m harsh on them. That’s part of the world,” — Jeffries. Trump, president
- “The question is will they vote because a lot of them are very angry at Republicans,” — Jeffries. Trump, president
- “He’s harsh on me because I’m harsh on him,” — Jeffries. Trump, president
What’s Next
The 2026 midterm elections will determine whether Jeffries assumes the Speakership and whether Trump’s party retains control of the Senate. Both parties are expected to intensify campaign efforts as the election cycle progresses.
