Rapper Lil Wayne praises Donald Trump’s plan for black Americans days ahead of election

Lil Wayne praised Donald Trump’s work on criminal justice reform after meeting with the president to discuss his plan to help black Americans.

The rapper said Mr Trump’s “platinum plan” will give the black community “real ownership”.

Alongside a picture of the pair smiling and giving a thumbs up, the hip-hop star said on Twitter: "Just had a great meeting with  @realdonaldtrump.

"Besides what he’s done so far with criminal reform, the platinum plan is going to give the community real ownership. He listened to what we had to say today and assured he will and can get it done. "

Mr Trump unveiled the “platinum plan” in September and said it was designed to provide an economic boost to the black community.

Proposals include making Juneteenth – a day which commemorates the end of slavery in the US – a federal holiday.

Some of Lil Wayne’s fans criticised his show of support, while Mr Trump’s conservatives cited the rapper as another example of a black entertainer who was choosing to support the  Republicans.

“Omg Wayne I'm your biggest fan,” said one social media user.  You can't believe his lies. Seriously no, this is heart breaking."

Rapper and producer Curtis Jackson, also known as 50 cent,  called out Lil Wayne on Twitter saying he would never have taken such a picture.

In 2016, Mr Trump won only 8 per cent of the black vote, compared to Hillary Clinton’s 88 per cent, according to a poll by Edison Research for the National Election Pool.

Lil Wayne is not the only famous rapper prepared to work with the president on his plan.

Ice Cube was forced to defend his role in advising Mr Trump with the proposals, saying “black progress is a bipartisan issue”. The NWA rapper faced backlash after the president’s adviser revealed on Twitter that he had advised the campaign.

Ice Cube has previously been critical of Mr Trump. His song, Arrest the President was released in 2018.

Kanye West has also been a supporter of the president, though he has since launched his own presidential bid.

Mr Trump has found celebrity support hard to come by. His famous supporters include Cheers actress Kirstie Alley and musician Kid Rock.

Oscar-winning actor Jon Voight, 81, is also a fervent supporter, as is fellow Hollywood star James Woods.