Donald Trump, who once declared “I hate Taylor Swift” on Truth Social, shocked the public by reversing course and calling her a “terrific person” while congratulating her and Travis Kelce on their engagement, a dramatic turnaround that sparked both laughter and speculation about his motives.

In one of the most unexpected cultural twists of the year, former President Donald Trump has offered warm congratulations to Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce on their engagement—despite publicly declaring just months ago that he “hates” the pop superstar.

The about-face, which played out during a cabinet meeting on Tuesday in Washington, has already ignited a firestorm of reactions online, raising questions about Trump’s sincerity, political motives, and the power of the celebrity couple’s influence.

When asked by a reporter about Swift and Kelce’s engagement, which was announced Monday night in Nashville, Trump smiled and replied: “I think it’s great, really great.

I wish them well.

Taylor Swift is a terrific person, very talented.

Travis Kelce is a tremendous player, one of the best.

People didn’t think it would last, but I always thought maybe it would.

Tremendous news.”

His comments drew chuckles from those in the room, but for many, they were almost unbelievable, considering his history of barbed remarks about Swift.

Back in February, on his Truth Social platform, Trump made headlines when he wrote: “I hate Taylor Swift.

Phony, fake, and totally overrated.”

At the time, his comments were seen as a response to speculation that Swift might endorse President Biden in the 2024 election, given her outspoken political stances in the past.

Trump’s declaration triggered a wave of backlash from Swift’s fanbase, the so-called Swifties, who mocked him online and trended hashtags like #SwiftiesAgainstTrump.

Now, only months later, Trump’s words could not be more different.

The timing has led to speculation that his pivot is less about personal admiration and more about political calculus.

Swift and Kelce’s engagement has become a cultural event on par with a royal wedding, uniting music and sports fans in a frenzy of adoration.

Political analysts suggest Trump may see value in softening his stance, knowing that Swift’s influence—especially among younger voters—has been described as “political dynamite.”

“It’s no coincidence that he’s suddenly calling her ‘terrific,’” one commentator noted on cable news Tuesday night.

“Taylor Swift is arguably the most powerful celebrity in America right now.

Her endorsement could sway millions of votes.

Trump knows this.” Others believe Trump is simply trying to stay in the conversation, using Swift’s engagement as a chance to attach his name to one of the week’s biggest stories.

Meanwhile, reactions from fans and celebrities poured in almost immediately after the clip from the cabinet meeting began circulating.

One Twitter user wrote: “Trump went from ‘I hate Taylor Swift’ to ‘Taylor is terrific’ faster than Travis Kelce runs a touchdown route. ”

Another joked: “Of course he loves Taylor now—who doesn’t want an invite to the wedding of the century?”

Political humorist Stephen Colbert weighed in on his show, quipping: “Trump congratulating Taylor Swift is like cats suddenly supporting dogs.

Something doesn’t add up.”

Even Swifties, who generally remain fiercely protective of their idol, couldn’t help but laugh at the irony.

“She doesn’t need your blessing, Donnie,” one fan wrote, “but thanks for finally admitting she’s terrific. ”

The engagement itself continues to dominate global headlines.

Swift and Kelce, who went public with their relationship in September 2023 when Swift was spotted cheering him on at Arrowhead Stadium, made their announcement with a single photo captioned “Forever. ”

The proposal reportedly took place during a candlelit dinner at a Nashville estate with both families present.

Swift’s diamond ring has been the subject of breathless online analysis, with jewelers estimating its value at more than $1 million.

Celebrity friends including Gayle King, Cara Delevingne, and Sabrina Carpenter have showered the couple with love, while Kelce’s teammates, Patrick Mahomes and Mike Danna, added a touch of humor to the celebrations.

But Trump’s remarks—perhaps the most unlikely of all—have now added a political twist to what had, until now, been a fairytale love story.

Critics argue that Trump’s sudden praise won’t erase his past comments or win over Swifties, many of whom remember her speaking out against him during the 2020 election.

“She’s already called him out for enabling hate and division,” one political blogger reminded readers.

“A couple of kind words at a cabinet meeting won’t change that.”

Still, others note that the former president’s ability to dominate the conversation—whether through negativity or praise—remains intact.

“This is classic Trump,” said one strategist.

“He inserts himself into a story that has nothing to do with him and makes sure people are talking about his reaction.”

For Swift and Kelce, however, the noise surrounding Trump’s comments may barely register.

Insiders say the couple is focused on enjoying their engagement and planning what is already being predicted as the most-watched celebrity wedding since Prince William and Kate Middleton.

Whether Trump’s sudden change of heart was genuine admiration, political maneuvering, or just another bid for attention, one thing is clear: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s engagement has transcended entertainment, spilling into politics, sports, and every corner of public life.

And in that overlap, even their fiercest critics can’t resist getting swept into the fairytale.