Donald Trump Renews Controversial Promises in First Post-Election Interview
In his first major interview since winning the 2024 presidential election, Donald Trump appeared on NBC’s Meet the Press with Kristen Welker, where he reiterated contentious promises, including pardoning January 6th Capitol attackers, enacting mass deportations, and imposing tariffs likely to raise prices for Americans.
Capitol Attack Pardons
Trump vowed to pardon many supporters convicted for their roles in the January 6th attack, claiming they were subjected to a “very corrupt system.” While he suggested there might be exceptions, Trump argued some individuals “had no choice” and were pressured into guilty pleas.
More than 1,250 people have been convicted or pleaded guilty for their involvement in the Capitol attack. At least 645 have received prison sentences, with terms ranging from a few days to 22 years. Some convicts, such as Edward Kelley of Tennessee, were found guilty of plotting violent retaliation against federal officials.
Trump criticized outgoing President Joe Biden’s recent pardon of his son, Hunter Biden, and implied Capitol investigators should face consequences, stating, “Honestly, they should go to jail.”
Economic Policies: Tariffs and Their Impact
Trump reaffirmed plans to impose tariffs on imports from major U.S. trading partners, acknowledging that Americans could face higher costs. “I’m going to be acting very quickly. First day,” he said. This stance contrasts with his campaign rhetoric, where he capitalized on voter frustration over rising costs.
Immigration: Mass Deportations and Ending Birthright Citizenship
Trump doubled down on plans for mass deportations, suggesting even families with mixed immigration statuses could be deported together. “The only way you don’t break up the family is you keep them together and you have to send them all back,” he said.
While he hinted at potential bipartisan cooperation to protect Dreamers—undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children—Trump promised to work toward ending birthright citizenship, including considering a constitutional amendment. “We have to end it,” he stated.
Election Denial and Victory Claims
Trump maintained his refusal to acknowledge Joe Biden’s victory in the 2020 election, once again asserting his baseless claim that the race was rigged. However, he referred to his 2024 win over Vice President Kamala Harris as “too big to rig.”
Controversy Surrounds Trump’s Plans
Trump’s renewed pledges have drawn sharp criticism from civil rights groups, economists, and Democratic leaders. His stance on pardoning January 6th attackers, in particular, has alarmed many who view it as an affront to accountability and justice.
As Trump prepares to take office for a second term, these policies and statements set the stage for a contentious presidency.
