When Faced With Claims of Racism, Trump Points to His Black Friends

NYT Homepage

by Erica L. Green and Dylan Freedman

February 22, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

President Trump has repeatedly cited his relationships with prominent Black individuals, including celebrities and athletes, when addressing allegations of racism. This strategy, often used during discussions about Black voters or racial issues, serves as a way to deflect criticism and showcase his purported connections within the Black community. During a recent Black History Month event at the White House, Trump highlighted figures like Nicki Minaj, Jesse Jackson, Jim Brown, Lawrence Taylor, Muhammad Ali, and Mike Tyson, emphasizing their loyalty to him. These mentions are part of a broader pattern where Trump uses these friendships as evidence of his stance on race relations. Trump’s tactic of invoking unnamed “Black friends” or high-profile Black figures has been criticized for reinforcing outdated stereotypes that claim racism can be countered by personal friendships with people of different races. This approach, often dismissed by critics, is seen as an attempt to distance himself from accusations of racial insensitivity while simultaneously asserting his connection to the Black community. The article highlights how Trump’s strategy reflects a long-standing narrative where individuals use their associations with diverse groups to claim immunity from charges of bias. By focusing on these friendships, Trump aims to shift attention away from broader issues of systemic racism and instead position himself as someone respected by people across racial divides. However, this approach is often viewed as insincere and calculated, particularly given the lack of concrete evidence or detailed discussions about policies addressing racial inequality. The article underscores the importance of examining how public figures address race and the tactics they employ to navigate these conversations. Trump’s reliance on celebrity endorsements and anecdotal friendships raises questions about

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Originally published on NYT Homepage on 2/22/2026