President Donald Trump defended his administration's economic policies and dismissed concerns about rising prices and a potential recession during a wide-ranging Meet The Press interview. The interview, conducted with NBC News’ Kristen Welker at his Mar-a-Lago home, covered topics from trade to foreign affairs.
Mr. Trump expressed confidence that his program of tariffs would ultimately strengthen the U.S. economy, despite some analysts warning they could lead to recession. He suggested that while prices on some imported goods might increase, falling energy prices would offset these costs for consumers.
He played down worries expressed by some small businesses that rely on imports, stating that many businesses would be helped by his tariff strategy. Trump argued there was no need for the relief some businesses are seeking.
The president addressed the recent report showing U.S. gross domestic product shrank at an annualized rate of three-tenths of a percentage point in the first quarter of 2025. He attributed this to a "transition period" and predicted a stronger future economy. US GDP declines 0.3 percent in Q1 2025
When asked if he was concerned about the economy continuing to shrink, Mr. Trump replied he was not, stating, "Anything can happen. But I think we’re going to have the greatest economy in the history of our country.”
New York Times political correspondent Maggie Haberman later commented on Trump’s dismissal of recession fears, calling it a "front that he is putting on.” She noted that Mr. Trump's claims about falling prices did not match reality for some voters responding to his social media posts.
Beyond the economy, the president discussed his stance on a potential third term, stating that while many people want him to do it, to his knowledge, it is not constitutionally permissible. He also commented on his efforts to control illegal immigration and his foreign policy approaches regarding nations like Russia, Ukraine, and Iran.
Mr. Trump maintained his belief that dissent is part of democracy, despite signing executive orders directing his Justice Department to investigate adversaries. He told Welker that people should be able to criticize him without fearing reprisal.
He concluded the interview by reiterating his positive outlook on the nation's economic future under his leadership.
"I said, this is a transition period. I think we’re going to do fantastically," Trump said.
