Senator Mitch McConnell reveals the tumultuous nature of his relationship with former President Donald Trump in a candid “60 Minutes” interview, shedding light on their strained dynamic and diverging views on key issues.
He’s danced around the matter for years – but he’s finally settling it.
At a Glance
- McConnell and Trump have not spoken for a significant period
- The Senator criticized Trump’s role in the January 6 Capitol riots
- McConnell disapproves of Trump’s trade strategies and controversial pardons
- Despite tensions, McConnell acknowledges Trump’s influence within the Republican Party
- The relationship between the two has been contentious from the start
A Fractured Alliance
In a revealing interview on “60 Minutes,” Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, 82, opened up about his strained relationship with President Donald Trump. The once-powerful political alliance has devolved into a state of prolonged silence and discord, with the two not having spoken for an extended period.
McConnell, while acknowledging Trump’s significant impact on the Republican Party, did not shy away from criticizing the President’s actions, particularly regarding the January 6 Capitol riots. The Senator’s candid remarks highlight the deep-seated tensions that have plagued their relationship, especially in the aftermath of the 2020 election.
The interview revealed several points of contention between McConnell and Trump. The Senator expressed resentment towards Trump’s handling of the Capitol riots, his controversial pardons, and his trade policies. McConnell argued that Trump’s tariff threats against Mexico, Canada, and China could potentially increase costs for American consumers.
“We had a candid relationship,” Mitch McConnell said.
This huge understatement from McConnell hints at the tumultuous nature of their interactions, which reportedly included screaming matches.
When pressed about past private comments describing Trump as “nasty” and a “sleazeball,” McConnell deflected, stating, “Those were private comments.” This reluctance to confirm or deny such remarks underscores the complex and often confrontational dynamic between the two political figures.
As the Republican Party navigates its future, the rift between McConnell and Trump presents significant challenges.
McConnell represents a bygone era of RINO Republicans and Trump represents a new, populist, bipartisan movement that is achieving more than any other Republican administrations ever have. So we know who’s on the right side of history here.