The feud between Sadiq Khan and Donald Trump reignited after the former US president branded London’s mayor a “stone-cold loser” and a “nasty person” during a recent visit to the UK. Their rivalry dates back to 2019, when Khan criticized Trump’s state visit and allowed a giant “Trump baby” blimp to fly over London.

The tension deepened over Khan’s Ultra Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) policy, which Trump labeled as “terrible” for the city. Meanwhile, British PM Keir Starmer has cautiously navigated the diplomatic tightrope, securing a rapport with Trump despite the mayor’s very public clashes.

Did Sadiq Khan really call Trump a ‘stone cold loser’ and what’s their beef about London’s ULEZ policy?

How the Khan-Trump feud started over Muslim ban comments

The bitter rivalry between London Mayor Sadiq Khan and former US President Donald Trump dates back to 2016 when Trump proposed his controversial Muslim travel ban. Khan, as London’s first Muslim mayor, called the policy “ignorant” and publicly wished for Trump to lose “badly” in the election. This set the stage for years of mutual disdain.

Trump frequently targeted Khan in tweets and interviews, particularly after terror attacks in London, accusing the mayor of doing a “terrible job” on terrorism. Khan responded by criticizing Trump’s divisive rhetoric. The feud became symbolic of wider political tensions between progressive urban leaders and Trump’s populist approach.

This was always more than personal – it represented a clash between Khan’s multicultural London and Trump’s nationalist worldview. The Muslim ban comments hit at Khan’s core identity as a barrier-breaking politician.

But couldn’t Khan have taken the high road? As mayor of a global city, shouldn’t he have shown more diplomatic restraint regardless of Trump’s provocations?

Why Trump keeps calling Khan “nasty” – and does it hurt Londoners?

Trump’s latest “nasty person” comments continue his pattern of personal attacks against Khan, echoing his “disaster” labeling in previous years. Critics argue these insults distract from substantive policy debates while supporters claim they highlight Khan’s failures on crime and transport.

The ULEZ expansion has become a flashpoint, with Trump seizing on public discontent about the £12.50 daily charge for non-compliant vehicles. While Khan argues it improves air quality, opponents say it unfairly burdens working-class Londoners during a cost-of-living crisis.

Impact on London’s international reputation

Some worry the public feuding damages London’s global standing, while others believe it showcases the city’s independence from authoritarian tendencies. The reality is likely more complex – foreign investors tend to focus on stable policy environments rather than political spats.

Is ULEZ actually working or just another Khan vanity project?

The Ultra Low Emission Zone, expanded London-wide in August 2023, remains Khan’s most controversial policy. Supporters point to data showing improved air quality and public health benefits, while critics argue it’s an unfair tax on drivers and small businesses.

Key ULEZ facts:

• Covers all London boroughs since August 2023
• £12.50 daily charge for non-compliant vehicles
• Police cameras enforce compliance
• £110m scrappage scheme available

Trump’s attacks resonate with those who see ULEZ as government overreach, but environmentalists argue such measures are necessary to combat climate change. The policy has become a political lightning rod beyond its actual environmental impact.

What’s Khan’s worst mistake according to Londoners?

Beyond ULEZ, Khan faces criticism on multiple fronts:

Many Londoners feel Khan prioritizes symbolic gestures over practical solutions, focusing on international reputation rather than local service delivery. His supporters argue he’s tackling long-term challenges others ignored.

Could Khan really enter UK national politics next?

Despite the controversies, Khan remains one of Labour’s most recognizable figures. Speculation persists about a potential run for party leadership or other national role after his mayoral term ends.

Potential paths forward:

• Labour Party leadership bid
• Cabinet position if Labour wins next election
• International organization role
• Return to Parliament

His handling of the Trump feud and ULEZ debate could either cement his status as a progressive champion or leave him too polarizing for broader appeal. Much depends on whether London’s air quality and crime trends improve before he leaves office.