Former President Donald Trump unleashed a tirade on Sunday against CNN commentator Van Jones, accusing him of failing to show gratitude for Trump’s efforts in criminal justice reform. Trump, who has often touted his administration’s role in passing the First Step Act, took to his social media platform, Truth Social, to express his frustration after Jones recently praised Vice President Kamala Harris for her economic agenda.
Trump’s anger was sparked by Jones’ public support for Harris, which Trump perceived as a slight against his own contributions to criminal justice reform—a cause that Jones has been closely associated with. “Lightweight Political commentator Van Jones begged me, while in the Oval Office and with tears flowing from his eyes, to help get Criminal Justice Reform approved by the United States Senate,” Trump wrote. He then accused Jones of being ungrateful, saying, “I got it done, with Conservative help, and this lowlife, Jones, never once called to thank me, or the others that helped, for what we had done”, told Raw Story.
Despite Trump’s criticisms, Jones has previously acknowledged Trump’s role in criminal justice reform. In 2018, Jones publicly credited Trump for his efforts in passing the First Step Act, a bipartisan bill aimed at reducing recidivism and reforming sentencing laws. However, Trump’s recent comments suggest he feels that Jones has not been sufficiently appreciative of his contributions.
In his Truth Social post, Trump also highlighted other accomplishments from his time in office, claiming, “Along with Opportunity Zones, the long term funding of HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES, and much more, I’ve done more for our black population than anyone other than, perhaps, Abraham Lincoln!!! Sorry, but that’s the way it is!!!”
Trump’s fiery remarks underscore the ongoing tensions between the former president and figures like Van Jones, who have both criticized and praised his actions at different times. As the 2024 election cycle heats up, Trump’s willingness to publicly confront his critics—especially those who have occasionally supported him—demonstrates his enduring focus on securing recognition for his perceived achievements.