By Charlie McCarthy
Monday, May 4, 2026
Donald Trump on Monday accused CNN commentator Van Jones of hypocrisy, claiming Jones has relentlessly denounced him despite his pivotal role in advancing criminal justice reform legislation during the former president’s first term.
In a Truth Social post, Trump recounted how Jones and a group of African American leaders approached him with urgent pleas to secure stalled reform legislation that had long failed to pass Congress. “When a devastated (he was crying like a baby!) Van Jones of CNN came to me with a group of African American leaders, he had ‘DEAD’ in getting Criminal Justice Reform approved in Congress,” Trump wrote. He emphasized the effort’s years-long stagnation before his involvement.
Trump argued that the bipartisan First Step Act—signed into law in 2018—faced steep opposition and lacked critical conservative support to pass. “Needed 5 Conservative Senators—there was no chance, or even hope, for a win,” he stated. “I liked some of the people he was with, agreed with what they were saying, and quickly rounded up the votes needed to get CRIMINAL JUSTICE REFORM approved.”
The First Step Act aimed to reduce recidivism and reform sentencing laws and became one of Trump’s signature bipartisan achievements during his first term. It received backing from lawmakers across party lines and advocacy groups spanning the political spectrum.
Trump highlighted the challenge, noting previous administrations—including Barack Obama’s—had failed for years to achieve similar results. “It was NOT easy! Nobody else, including Obama, who tried to for years, could have done this!” he wrote.
Despite praising Jones’ role in passing reform, Trump accused him of becoming a vocal critic in the media. “Now I watch this guy, Van Jones, every chance he gets, calling me a ‘Dictator,’ and far worse,” Trump added. “He should be ashamed of himself!!!”
Jones, a longtime criminal justice reform advocate, has publicly praised the First Step Act while remaining critical of Trump on other issues. Criminal justice reform continues to be a key focus for Republicans seeking results that resonate across demographics. Supporters credit Trump’s ability to deliver on the legislation with his effectiveness in Washington; critics argue it resulted from years of bipartisan groundwork.
