Trump to The Atlantic: ‘I Run the Country and the World’/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President Donald Trump discussed his second-term agenda, power on the global stage, and a potential third run during a wide-ranging interview with The Atlantic. Trump reflected on political rivals, immigration policies, and Pentagon controversies. His remarks hint at ambitions and controversies that continue to shape his presidency.
Five Key Quotes From Trump’s Atlantic Interview Revealed: Quick Looks
- Trump says he now “runs the country and the world.”
- Hints at 2028 run but says “it’s not something I’m looking to do.”
- Billionaires show Trump “higher level of respect” now.
- Stands by embattled Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth after Signal scandal.
- Acknowledges immigration system flaws, saying, “Nothing will ever be perfect.”
Trump to The Atlantic: ‘I Run the Country and the World’
Deep Look
Trump Discusses Power, Future Ambitions in Revealing Atlantic Interview
WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump offered candid insights into his mindset and administration in a new interview with The Atlantic, published Monday as part of the magazine’s June cover story, “Donald Trump Is Enjoying This.”
During the conversation, Trump addressed the challenges of his second term, the fallout from the “Signalgate” Pentagon scandal, his immigration policies, and his thoughts on a possible third-term run.
Here are five key quotes from the interview:
1. “I run the country and the world”
Reflecting on the difference between his first and second terms, Trump asserted his expanded influence.
“The first time, I had two things to do — run the country and survive; I had all these crooked guys.
And the second time, I run the country and the world,” Trump said.
He added that despite the gravity of his position, he is “having a lot of fun” leading both the nation and influencing global politics.
2. A third term “would be a big shattering”
When asked about a potential third presidential run in 2028, Trump called it “a big shattering.”
“Maybe I’m just trying to shatter,” he mused, but clarified, “It’s not something that I’m looking to do. And I think it would be a very hard thing to do.”
Despite constitutional barriers under the 22nd Amendment, Trump has teased the possibility. The Trump Organization has even started selling “Trump 2028” merchandise, fueling speculation.
3. Billionaire class showing “higher level of respect”
Trump noted a warmer relationship with America’s wealthiest individuals during his second term.
“I don’t know… Maybe they didn’t know me at the beginning, and they know me now,” he said, describing a “higher level of respect.”
He specifically praised Amazon founder Jeff Bezos as “100 percent” supportive and highlighted his improved relationship with Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, once a former adversary.
4. Hegseth will “get it together” after Pentagon controversy
Despite the fallout from the “Signal” messaging scandal that rocked the Pentagon, Trump expressed continued confidence in his Defense Secretary, Pete Hegseth.
“I think he’s gonna get it together,” Trump said.
Trump also defended National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, who was involved in the Signal group chat mishap, saying Waltz was “fine” despite heavy public criticism.
5. “Nothing will ever be perfect” on immigration
Pressed on the administration’s aggressive deportation policies, Trump acknowledged that errors could happen but defended the broader mission.
“Let me tell you that nothing will ever be perfect in this world,” he said.
Trump’s remarks came amid concerns from immigration advocates that legal residents and even U.S. citizens could be mistakenly deported without due process.
Context and Reaction
The interview comes at a critical moment as Trump navigates domestic and international controversies while gearing up for a potential extended political future. His willingness to entertain the idea of a third term, continued tensions over immigration enforcement, and his efforts to repair alliances with business leaders underscore the complexities of his second term in office.
As Trump seeks to solidify his legacy — and potentially defy political norms — his comments in The Atlantic provide a glimpse into his evolving view of power, loyalty, and governance.
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