President Donald Trump sat for an extensive interview with NBC host Kristen Welker Sunday, addressing his administration's initial actions and policy goals across various domestic and international issues.
The conversation covered economic strategy, border security, foreign relations, and the president's long-term vision, taking place just over 100 days into his term.
On border security, President Trump asserted that border crossings are at record lows, asking the host if reporting this felt positive after years of what he described as an "incompetent president" allowing uncontrolled entry. The White House recently highlighted efforts to combat illegal immigration and increase deportations. Border encounters reached low numbers during the first full month of the administration.
Despite stating the border is "really secure," President Trump confirmed he has no immediate plans to lift the national emergency declaration related to immigration. He described the main emergency now as courts hindering the removal of individuals residing in the country.
Regarding the economy, the president claimed recent positive job numbers and decreases in energy prices represent the "Trump economy," while attributing negative indicators to the previous administration. He defended his use of tariffs, particularly against China, arguing they serve as an incentive for companies to manufacture in the United States and are making the country wealthy.
He dismissed concerns that tariffs cause price increases on consumer goods as negligible compared to the decrease in energy costs. He noted that companies can avoid tariffs by building products domestically. Small businesses report facing challenges due to the tariffs, while the auto industry, according to Trump, is benefiting greatly.
On foreign policy, President Trump discussed potential peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, stating he believes the United States is closer to a deal, although he did not specify which party is more receptive. He reiterated his view that the conflict would not have occurred under his previous presidency.
He also addressed comments about potentially claiming Canada and Greenland, clarifying that annexing Canada is unlikely due to strong existing ties, but did not rule out military force as a possibility for Greenland, citing national security needs.
President Trump also touched upon his administration's reshuffling of national security personnel and denied plans to remove Fed Chair Jerome Powell, whose term, he noted, expires relatively soon.
Looking ahead, President Trump stated his focus is on having four successful years and setting the country on a favorable path. When asked about the legacy of the MAGA movement, he expressed confidence it would endure beyond his time as president due to its strength and the people involved.
