The leftist Mexican leader made his first foreign trip as president to the White House, where he and Trump focused on positive remarks while largely glossing over their differences on business, illegal migration, and other issues. López Obrador thanked Trump for never trying to impose anything that violates Mexican sovereignty. “You have never attempted to treat us like a colony,” he said. “Your president has treated us with kindness and respect.”

Mindful of the pandemic still surging in both countries, the men did not shake hands and wore no masks. There were no tangible signs of progress on issues like counter-narcotics or energy contracts. They signed a joint declaration celebrating the new USMCA trade agreement. Trump joked that he and the leftist president had forged “a great relationship—maybe against all odds.”

Critics argued Trump aimed to use the visit to gain support among Hispanic voters ahead of the election. López Obrador was not scheduled to meet Joe Biden, who is favored by Hispanic voters. A former Mexican ambassador said the president’s comments about Trump being respectful left migrant leaders “completely aghast.” Still, a congressman from López Obrador’s own party called the visit “exemplary” and praised the president’s diplomatic skills.

López Obrador brushed off criticism at home to meet Trump, who is widely disliked in Mexico for past remarks. Trump once threatened tariffs to force Mexico to reduce illegal immigration, only backing off after López Obrador agreed to deploy security forces. Trump later hosted a dinner for the Mexican leader and prominent executives. The visit was less about policy and more about politics—on both sides of the border.