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In an exclusive interview with Kristen Welker for NBC’s Meet the Press, President-elect Donald Trump outlined sweeping policy goals for his upcoming administration, including controversial measures on immigration, economic reforms, and a promise to unite the nation. The interview, conducted at Trump Tower, marked his first major network appearance since winning the 2024 presidential election.
Trump, who won the popular vote and swept key battleground states, reflected on his victory with pride. “I love that I won the popular vote, and by a lot,” he said.
Key Policies: Pardons, Immigration, and the Economy
Pardons for Jan. 6 Defendants
Trump announced that on his first day in office, he will issue pardons for individuals convicted in connection with the Jan. 6 Capitol attack. “These people are living in hell,” he said, arguing that many received excessively harsh sentences.
Immigration Crackdown
Immigration remains a cornerstone of Trump’s platform. He pledged to deport millions of undocumented immigrants, starting with convicted criminals. Regarding families with mixed immigration status, Trump stated, “The only way you don’t break up the family is you keep them together and you have to send them all back.”
However, Trump expressed openness to a legislative solution for Dreamers—undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children—acknowledging their contributions to society.
Trump also reiterated plans to end birthright citizenship, even if it requires amending the Constitution. “We’ll maybe have to go back to the people,” he said.
Economic Policies
Trump pledged to extend the tax cuts implemented during his first term and to impose tariffs on imports from major trading partners. However, he admitted he could not guarantee that American families wouldn’t face higher costs as a result.
He also signaled openness to raising the federal minimum wage, currently $7.25 per hour, after consulting with state governors.
Unity, Yet a Hardline Stance on Opponents
Despite a call for unity in his second inaugural address, Trump didn’t shy away from attacking political adversaries. He described special counsel Jack Smith as “very corrupt” and suggested that members of the House committee investigating Jan. 6 should face jail time.
However, he said he would not appoint a special prosecutor to investigate President Joe Biden. “Retribution will be through success,” Trump said.
Foreign Policy: NATO, Ukraine, and Syria
On foreign policy, Trump voiced skepticism about continued U.S. support for NATO, tying America’s role to whether allies “pay their bills.” He also suggested reducing military aid to Ukraine, though he met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Paris to discuss the ongoing war with Russia.
Regarding Syria, Trump expressed doubts about President Bashar al-Assad’s ability to retain power amid recent rebel advances.
Looking Ahead to January 20
Trump promised a presidency focused on unity, stating that his inaugural message will be a departure from his first term’s “American carnage” theme. “We’re going to have a message of unity,” he said, adding, “No American carnage.”
For Americans who didn’t vote for him, Trump offered reassurance: “I’m going to treat you every bit as well as I have treated the greatest MAGA supporters.”
