President-elect Donald Trump’s campaign adviser, Chris LaCivita, has publicly criticized the appointment of Lord Peter Mandelson as the UK’s next Ambassador to the United States, calling him an “absolute moron” with Trump’s explicit permission, according to sources.
At a glance:
- Trump’s disapproval: The president-elect reportedly sanctioned the insult, expressing frustration with the UK’s decision to appoint Lord Mandelson.
- Mandelson’s controversial history: The former Labour spin doctor and Minister has been openly critical of Trump in the past.
- UK-US relations strain: Critics claim the appointment has turned the “special relationship” between the two countries “toxic.”
- Starmer defends decision: UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer lauded Mandelson’s “unrivalled experience” as essential for fostering ties with the Trump administration.
Lord Mandelson, a prominent figure in British politics and former EU Commissioner, is set to replace Dame Karen Pierce as the UK’s Ambassador to Washington. His appointment, however, has ignited tensions with Trump’s team, who have openly objected to the choice.
Chris LaCivita, Trump’s former Campaign Coordinator, posted on X (formerly Twitter) that the UK government was “replacing a professional universally respected Ambassador with an absolute moron.” He referenced Mandelson’s past remarks, including calling Trump “a danger to the world” and “little short of a white nationalist and racist.”
Why the hell would Trump, or any of his officials, ever want to work with someone like that?
According to insiders, LaCivita’s post was made with Trump’s direct approval. “Trump gave permission for Chris LaCivita to put out that tweet,” a source close to the president-elect told The Independent.
A Strained Relationship
The controversy has highlighted the growing strain in UK-US relations. Trump’s team reportedly warned UK officials against appointing Mandelson, who has a history of sharp criticism toward Trump. Despite these warnings, Prime Minister Keir Starmer proceeded with the decision.
“This UK government has turned the special relationship toxic,” an insider said, adding that the appointment “locked out” the UK from key discussions with Trump’s incoming administration.
The backlash is compounded by prior tensions, including Labour’s support for Kamala Harris during the presidential election and past comments from Foreign Secretary David Lammy, who labeled Trump a “tyrant” and “neo-Nazi-sympathizing sociopath.”
Mandelson’s Pitch for Reconciliation
Despite his history of criticism, Mandelson has recently softened his tone, advocating for a pragmatic approach to relations with the Trump administration. He has emphasized the importance of fostering a productive partnership, calling for a “new relationship rather than a special one.”
In an interview, Mandelson acknowledged the challenges of working with Trump but stressed the need to “understand and interpret what he’s doing” while seeking to influence his administration’s policies.
Starmer Defends Decision Amid Backlash
Defending the appointment, Starmer praised Mandelson’s “unrivalled experience” and expressed confidence in his ability to navigate the complexities of US-UK diplomacy. “Peter will bring unrivalled experience to the role and take our partnership from strength to strength,” Starmer said.
However, critics, including senior Conservative MP Sir Iain Duncan Smith, have called for an investigation into Mandelson’s appointment, citing his political baggage and past controversial remarks.
Uncertain Future
With Trump set to take office in January, the fallout from Mandelson’s appointment underscores the challenges facing UK-US relations. Whether Mandelson can overcome the initial hostility and rebuild ties remains to be seen, as both nations navigate this critical juncture in their historic alliance.
