David Lammy Shifts Stance on Trump, Calling Him ‘Funny, Friendly, and Warm’

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In a surprising turn, Foreign Secretary David Lammy has offered high praise for President-elect Donald Trump, a stark contrast to his previous harsh criticisms. Lammy, who once referred to Trump as a “woman-hating, neo-Nazi sympathising sociopath” in 2018, now describes him as “incredibly graceful,” “generous,” and “very, very friendly.”

"We have a special relationship with the United States, doesn't matter who is in the White House or Number 10."

Foreign Secretary David Lammy has said he looks forward to working with Donald Trump ahead of his inauguration. https://t.co/PAiZ4D1jU3

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Speaking ahead of Trump’s return to the White House, Lammy highlighted the president-elect's warmth and amiability. “The Donald Trump I met was a man who had incredible grace, generosity, very keen to be a good host, very funny, very, very friendly, very warm,” Lammy said, reflecting on a meeting last year in New York City where he and Sir Keir Starmer dined with Trump.

 

Lammy’s shift in tone comes as the UK government seeks to strengthen ties with the incoming US administration. Sir Keir Starmer is expected to visit Washington, D.C., to meet with Trump in the coming weeks, with efforts to secure a new trade deal high on the agenda. A “mini-Cabinet” of senior ministers has been established to strategize ways to persuade Trump to reach an agreement favorable to the UK.

 

When questioned on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme about his altered perspective on Trump, Lammy emphasized a pragmatic approach. “The approach has got to be progressive realism,” he said. “You meet the world as it is, not as you would wish it to be.”

 

Lammy acknowledged the broad support Trump enjoys globally, noting a recent survey indicating that 70 percent of the world welcomes Trump’s return to power. He pointed out the increase in support for Trump among various demographics in the US, including African American and Latino communities, and younger voters. “We have to reckon with that truth,” Lammy concluded, signaling a recognition of Trump’s enduring appeal.

 

The UK government is hopeful that past criticisms from senior Labour figures won’t hinder the ongoing efforts to foster a strong UK-US relationship under Trump’s leadership.

 

Based on a report by Daily Telegraph 2025-01-22