In a Meet the Press interview, US President-elect Donald Trump pledged significant changes upon taking office. He vowed to pardon those convicted in the January 6 Capitol attack on day one, claiming they have faced “overly harsh treatment.” Trump reiterated his hardline stance on immigration, promising mass deportations of undocumented immigrants, ending birthright citizenship through executive action, and pursuing a legislative solution to allow Dreamers to remain legally in the country.
Tax Cuts and Abortion Stance
Trump plans to extend the tax cuts from his first term and stated he would not impose new restrictions on abortion pills, signaling continuity on these issues.
Election and Political Retaliation
Reiterating grievances about the 2020 election, Trump maintained it was “too big to rig” but stopped short of pursuing political retribution. He announced he would not appoint a special prosecutor to investigate President Joe Biden, stating, “Retribution will be through success.”
Minimum Wage and Obamacare
Trump expressed willingness to consider raising the federal minimum wage, stagnant at $7.25 since 2009, after consulting with state governors. On healthcare, he criticized Obamacare, calling it ineffective, and promised to present a superior alternative.
Family in the White House
Unlike his first term, Trump stated his children would not serve as White House aides. He did not elaborate on the role his wife, Melania Trump, might play.
Foreign Policy: NATO, Ukraine, and Syria
Trump cast doubt on continued US military aid to Ukraine, stating that the war might end under his leadership. He also declined to commit to the US’s role in NATO, emphasizing the importance of member nations paying their dues. On Syria, Trump expressed skepticism about President Bashar al-Assad’s ability to retain power.
Age and Transparency
Acknowledging concerns about his age, Trump, who will be 82 at the end of his next term, pledged to release his full medical records.
Trump’s bold proposals signal a continuation of his controversial and ambitious approach to governance as he prepares for his second term in office.
