Democratic leader Jeffries meets with Trump adviser Kushner amid midterm race

House Democratic Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries met privately with Jared Kushner, a senior adviser to President Donald Trump, in a discussion that sources said covered topics such as housing, immigration and the cost-of-living crisis. The meeting, first reported by the New York Times, was described as an effort to find common ground between the two sides.

Jeffries did not comment on the private conversation but issued a statement urging the Republican administration to abandon what he called a “my-way-or-the-highway” approach, adding that an extremist stance would meet “forceful opposition.”

“The question is whether Republicans will join us,” Jeffries said.

Kushner reportedly suggested that Jeffries meet with White House Chief of Staff Suzy Wiles as a follow-up. The encounter comes as Democrats seek to regain control of the House, which would elevate Jeffries to the Speaker’s chair if successful.

Current House Speaker Mike Johnson dismissed the meeting, telling Fox News that he was unsure of its purpose and characterising Kushner as not directly involved in day-to-day White House operations.

“I don’t know what that’s about. I know Jared has interest in lots of other things going on,” Johnson said.

“I’m telling you what, you better not bet against the House Republicans,” he added.

The White House did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Jeffries’ office also declined to comment on the meeting.