President Donald Trump reignited his feud with Rep. Jerry Nadler this week, unleashing sharp criticism in a Truth Social post just days after the longtime New York Democrat announced his plans to retire, as Fox News reports.
Trump’s online remarks followed Nadler’s decision not to run for reelection in 2026, ending a political career that has spanned more than three decades in Congress and five decades in public service. Nadler revealed Tuesday that this term will be his last in the U.S. House of Representatives. He explained that the decision was difficult but necessary, noting his desire to pass leadership responsibilities to the next generation.
Trump wasted no time responding to the announcement, publishing a scathing message aimed at Nadler’s career and role in Trump’s two impeachments. He called the congressman “one of the most disgusting” to ever serve in Washington and described him as a “psychopathic nut job.”
The president reminded his supporters of his long history of clashes with Nadler, which he said began more than four decades ago. According to Trump, Nadler opposed him “at every corner” during his years as a New York developer but never managed to stop him from completing projects.
Trump also connected Nadler to the two impeachment proceedings launched against him while he was in the White House. He accused the congressman and former Speaker Nancy Pelosi of wasting taxpayer money on efforts that ultimately failed to remove him from office.
Nadler did not hold back in responding to Trump’s attacks. In a statement, he dismissed Trump as a “charlatan” and emphasized the former president’s legal troubles and historical standing as a twice-impeached leader.
“I’ve known Donald Trump almost as long as he’s known Jeffrey Epstein,” Nadler said in one statement. “I’ve always known him for the charlatan he is. Now I know him as a twice impeached president, convicted felon and chief insurrectionist.” Nadler went on to say he does not take Trump’s words seriously, and he urged others to do the same. The clash reflected the deep animosity that has characterized their political relationship for decades.
Nadler’s decision to step aside marks the end of a significant era in New York and national politics. First elected to Congress more than 32 years ago, he has been a key Democratic Party voice on issues ranging from impeachment inquiries to judicial oversight.
He stressed in his retirement statement that he has had the honor of representing New Yorkers in Congress and acknowledged the difficulty of his decision. However, he said he believed it was the right time to transition leadership to new voices.
“When I step down at the end of this term, I will have served for 50 years in continuous elected public service to the people of New York,” Nadler said. The congressman expressed gratitude for the opportunity and pride in his decades of legislative work.
Trump framed Nadler’s announcement as a positive moment for the country, saying it would be “a great day” when Nadler finally leaves Congress. He labeled him a “pathetic lightweight” and tied his departure to Trump’s campaign slogan to “Make America Great Again.”
In his Truth Social post, Trump emphasized the longevity of their rivalry, calling attention to his victories over Nadler both in New York real estate battles and in political arenas. He argued that Nadler’s opposition never managed to stop his successes. Despite his attacks, Trump’s remarks underscored how much Nadler has been a central figure in his political narrative, particularly during the impeachment efforts that defined much of his presidency.
Nadler’s retirement will open the door to a new Democrat contender to represent his New York district. The announcement comes at a time of broader shifts within the party, as several veteran lawmakers signal plans to step aside in upcoming election cycles.
The heated exchange between Trump and Nadler reflects the lingering tensions of their longstanding feud, even as Nadler prepares to exit the national stage. Both men appear determined to frame the congressman’s retirement as evidence of their contrasting political legacies.
As the nation looks toward the 2026 elections, Nadler’s departure and Trump’s vocal response highlight the enduring influence of personalities and rivalries in shaping American politics.