Donald Trump has denied encouraging Republican operatives to help get Kanye West on state ballots for the US presidential election, but did rave about his relationship with the rapper and his wife Kim Kardashian.
Apparently unaware of West's well-publicised breakdown, which Kardashian attributed to his bipolar disorder, Trump said West had "always been very nice to him," but insisted he "wasn't involved" in getting him on any ballots during a press conference on Wednesday (local time).
"I get along very well with him," Trump said. "I like him."
The president also took the opportunity to praise Kardashian, whom he has discussed criminal justice reform with, after taking her recommendations to commute the sentences of several prisoners.
"I took what she said very strong, Kim Kardashian [sic]... very good heart," he said.
"[But] I have nothing to do with [Kanye] getting on the ballot," Trump continued, adding "we'll have to see what happens".
Despite the controversy surrounding his many public outbursts since announcing his bid for presidency, West has reportedly continued to file paperwork to run in several states.
West's latest downward spiral began at his now-infamous presidential rally last month where he broke down in tears and shouted that he and Kardashian had considered aborting their first child.
The rapper then retreated to his ranch where he embarked on several Twitter tirades, accusing his wife of trying to "lock him up" and insisting he had been trying to divorce her for some time.
Kardashian released a statement asking for empathy and compassion in response to her husband's behaviour, discussing his bipolar diagnosis in detail for the first time.
West made a public apology to his wife last week, writing: "I did not cover her like she has covered me."
"To Kim I want to say I know I hurt you. Please forgive me. Thank you for always being there for me."
