In a surprising turn-of-events Sadiq Khan changed his stance towards Donald Trump whose getting ready to move back into White House next winter. During a recent LBC phone-in Khan spoke about UK-US relations in a more level headed way.
The London mayor (who previously called-out Trumps policies) now suggests treating the president-elect like a best-mate: “Its really important that we put out a hand of friendship to president-elect Trump and wish him well“
In a High Performance podcast recorded before elections Khan discussed his past run-ins with Trump saying the ex-president targeted him because of racism. He pointed out several concerns about Trumpʼs approach:
- protectionist ideas
- nativist thinking
- unilateral decision-making
Their history of disagreements goes way-back. About 7 years ago Trump challenged Khan to an IQ test and criticized his handling of London security. Later on Trump called him a “stone cold loser“ which led to Khan allowing that famous baby-blimp protest during Trumps UK visit
Despite past conflicts Khan now takes a more balanced position: “One of the joys about a special relationship is it is like having a best mate; our expectations are more for a best mate than they are of others“ (though he still thinks some of Trumps ideas need to be challenged)