Trump Reacts to Hungary's Election Victory: 'I Think He Will Do a Good Job'
Translated from Romanian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
TLDR
- US President Donald Trump expressed support for Hungary's new Prime Minister-designate, Péter Magyar, stating he believes Magyar will "do a good job."
- Trump acknowledged Viktor Orbán's defeat but praised him as a "good man" and a "friend," particularly for his immigration policies.
- While Trump was not heavily involved in the Hungarian election, he suggested that if he had been, the outcome might have differed, though he respects Orbán's past performance.
In a surprising turn of events following Hungary's recent parliamentary elections, former US President Donald Trump has offered words of encouragement to the newly designated Prime Minister, Péter Magyar. Trump's reaction, conveyed to journalists, indicates a pragmatic approach to the political shift in Budapest, even as he maintains a positive view of the outgoing leader, Viktor Orbán.
I think the new guy will do a good job. He is a good man.
Trump described Magyar as a "good man" and expressed confidence in his ability to lead Hungary, stating, "I think the new guy will do a good job." This endorsement, coming from a prominent global figure, could lend significant weight to Magyar's nascent premiership. Trump's comments suggest an openness to working with the new Hungarian government, regardless of the electoral outcome.
He was far behind. I didn't get too involved in it. Viktor is still a good man.
Despite Orbán's defeat after 16 years in power, Trump spoke highly of him, calling him a "friend" and a "good man." He specifically lauded Orbán's immigration policies, noting his success in preventing unauthorized immigration. Trump also alluded to his own limited involvement in the Hungarian campaign, hinting that a more direct engagement might have altered the results, though he ultimately respected the democratic process and Orbán's tenure.
Viktor Orban was a friend of mine. It wasn't my election, but he was my friend, a good man. He did a good job on immigration. He didn't let people come in and destroy his country, like Italy did.
This development is particularly noteworthy from a Hungarian perspective. While Western media often focuses on the perceived democratic backsliding under Orbán, Trump's comments, particularly his praise for Orbán's immigration stance, resonate with a segment of the Hungarian population that values strong border control. Trump's acknowledgment of Magyar, coupled with his continued respect for Orbán, highlights a complex geopolitical dynamic where traditional alliances are being reshaped.
I am saddened that he lost, but I am sure we will work very well with the future Hungarian prime minister.
Originally published by Adevărul in Romanian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.