Trump praises ‘hero’ Jesse Jackson, calls him ‘real piece of work’ at Black History event

WASHINGTON, DC: President Donald Trump took a moment to recognize civil rights leader Jesse Jackson during a Black History Month gathering on Wednesday, February 18. In his speech, he referred to Jesse Jackson as a “real piece of work.” He also described him as a “good man” and a “hero.”

The remarks caught the audience’s attention and were followed by applause. Trump said he knew Jackson long before he became president. Even after his death, he said his memories of Jackson have only grown stronger over time.

The president pointed out that Jackson was “street smart,” calling it an important quality to have in life. He also described him as gracious, someone who “truly loved people,” and a “force of nature.” Jackson took his last breath on Tuesday, February 17.

Trump honors Jesse Jackson at Black History Month event

Donald Trump also shared a couple of images on Truth Social on Tuesday, February 17, as he reflected on the life and legacy of 84-year-old civil rights leader Jesse Jackson. A day later, while speaking at a Black History Month event, he offered extended remarks in tribute. Trump was joined by Alice Marie Johnson, who served 21 years for a nonviolent drug offense before receiving a full pardon from him.

At the start of his speech, Trump addressed the loss and spoke about his personal connection to Jesse Jackson. He said, "I wanted to begin by expressing our sadness at the passing of a person who was... I knew very well. Jesse (Jackson) was a piece of work, I want to tell you. He was a piece of work, but he was a good man. He was a real, he was a real hero."

He continued by honoring Jackson’s legacy and character, adding, " And, I just want to pay my highest respects to Reverend Jesse Jackson. A good man. He was actually, as you got to know him he got better and better all the time. A lot of people. When you get to know 'em, they get worse and worse. Jesse got better and better. " Reflecting on their history, Trump emphasized that he had known Jackson long before entering politics. He stated, "But I knew him well, long before becoming president, and he really was special, with lots of personality, grit and street smarts. You would say Jesse had serious street smarts, right? Yeah, very important ingredient to life. I will tell you. "

He concluded his tribute by speaking about Jackson’s warmth and impact on others. The president said, "He was gregarious and someone who truly loved people and a force of nature, who was somebody that we're going to greatly miss. And on behalf of everyone here today, I know you join me in sending our condolences to the entire family. A great family," he added.

Black History Month event backs Trump support

The February 18 event in the East Room of the White House ended with a message of celebration and support. Trump marked Black History Month and thanked those who stood by him. Alice Marie Johnson spoke strongly in his favor.

She told the crowd, “Don’t let anyone tell you that this president right here, Donald Trump… is not for Black America, because he is.” She added, “I'm standing here today as a testament... to how he feels about Black Americans.”

Trump also reminded everyone why the event was held. He said, “We celebrate Black History Month. We honor the memory of those who came before us by continuing their legacy.” He mentioned supporters like Mike Tyson and Nicki Minaj. He also invited Scott Turner and Alice Marie Johnson to join him on stage. The program ended with applause and a positive mood.