Washington, D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser recently sat down with MSNBC to discuss her meeting with President-elect Donald Trump. Characterizing the discussion as both "forward-looking" and "candid," Bowser emphasized the unique relationship between the nation's capital and the presidency. This meeting marks Bowser's third presidential transition and her second with Trump.
Former RNC chair and MSNBC host Michael Steele, acknowledging prior tensions between Bowser and Trump during his first term, inquired about the meeting's atmosphere and the expectations of D.C. residents. Bowser described the discussion as productive, focused on shared priorities for both the district and the incoming administration. She expressed optimism for collaboration in the future.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser discussed her meeting with President-elect Trump on MSNBC. (Screenshot/MSNBC)
MSNBC host Symone Sanders-Townsend confirmed the meeting's non-contentious nature, noting that crime was among the topics discussed. Bowser highlighted the substantive and unhurried nature of their conversation, which lasted between 45 minutes to an hour. She reiterated her post-meeting statement expressing hope for continued collaboration and a smooth inauguration.
President-elect Trump at a news conference in Texas. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon)
The meeting stands in contrast to past clashes between Bowser and Trump, particularly during the George Floyd protests and riots in 2020. These disagreements included the establishment of "Black Lives Matter Plaza" near the White House and the deployment of federal law enforcement in D.C. Further friction arose from Trump's criticism of a D.C. proposal to review and potentially alter historical monuments.
