President Donald Trump on Tuesday described the Rev. Jesse Jackson as a “force of nature” after news of Jackson’s death at age 84. The former president and the longtime civil rights leader knew each other for several decades. Their relationship extended across politics, business, and public events in New York and beyond.
Jackson, a Baptist minister and prominent civil rights activist, died Tuesday at 84, according to a statement from his family. He was best known for his work alongside the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., his leadership roles in civil rights organizations, and his presidential campaigns in the 1980s. He also founded the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, which focused on economic and social justice.
Trump and Jackson first crossed paths in New York’s business and political circles. Trump operated as a developer and public figure in the city. Jackson engaged heavily in activism and outreach to corporate leaders. They appeared together at various functions in the 1980s and 1990s. Jackson at that time publicly praised Trump’s participation in minority business development initiatives and events linked to economic opportunity programs.
Jackson described Trump in past remarks as someone who had been helpful to minority entrepreneurs who sought access to capital and real estate opportunities. Trump later referred to those years when discussing his history with Jackson and other civil rights figures.
Their relationship shifted after Trump entered national politics and ran for president in 2016. Jackson became an outspoken critic of Trump’s policies, including his stance on immigration, voting rights, and policing. Jackson denounced Trump’s comments on race and accused him of promoting division. Trump and his aides defended his record and pointed to his administration’s actions on criminal justice reform and funding for historically Black colleges and universities.
Trump’s recent comment calling Jackson a “force of nature” followed decades of public interaction and changing political views. Trump has noted in interviews and speeches that he had known Jackson long before his presidency. He has also cited old photos and videos as evidence of their longstanding acquaintance.
Jackson remained active in public life for many years while managing health challenges. He announced a Parkinson’s disease diagnosis in 2017. He continued to speak at events, attend protests, and participate in voter registration drives. He also remained involved with the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, which held annual conventions focusing on voting rights, economic equity, and educational opportunity.
The two men shared a history that began in the business and civic life of New York, moved through national politics, and continued into the later years of both of their careers. The description of Jackson as a “force of nature” pointed to his reputation for energetic advocacy, frequent travel, and constant involvement in public campaigns and negotiations.
Jackson’s death marked the end of a career that reached from the civil rights struggles of the 1960s to the debates of the 21st century. Trump’s comment joined a wide range of reactions from individuals who interacted with Jackson in political, religious, business, and community settings over many years.
