Trump tariffs/ U.S. consumer prices/ NATO membership/ Ukraine aid/ political prosecutions/ immigration policy/ WASHINGTON/ Newslooks/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ President-elect Donald Trump addressed tariffs, justice reform, immigration, and global policy during a Meet the Press interview, suggesting he might impose tariffs that could raise U.S. prices and leaving open the possibility of prosecuting political opponents. He emphasized swift action on immigration and hinted at reduced U.S. aid to Ukraine while committing to NATO under conditions.
Trump’s Key Remarks: Quick Looks
- Tariffs and Prices: Trump acknowledged tariffs might raise U.S. consumer prices but defended them as beneficial overall.
- Justice and Retribution: Suggested political rivals could face legal consequences but claimed no interest in revenge.
- Immigration Policy: Promised a mass deportation program and potential executive action to end birthright citizenship.
- NATO Commitment: Reaffirmed U.S. membership in NATO if allies meet spending obligations.
- Ukraine Aid: Indicated possible cuts to U.S. assistance to Ukraine and called for a ceasefire.
- Federal Appointments: Confirmed Jerome Powell would remain at the Fed but hinted at replacing FBI Director Wray.
- Social Security: Promised no changes to Social Security benefits but remained vague on health care reforms.
Trump Discusses Tariffs, NATO, and Legal Battles in NBC Interview
Deep Look
Tariffs and Their Impact
President-elect Trump reiterated his intention to impose broad tariffs, including a 25% levy on goods from Mexico and Canada, to combat illegal immigration and fentanyl trafficking. He conceded tariffs might raise consumer prices but justified them as a means to strengthen the U.S. economy.
“I can’t guarantee anything,” Trump said when pressed on whether tariffs would lead to higher costs for Americans. Still, he framed tariffs as a path to wealth, saying they are “going to make us rich.”
Legal System and Potential Prosecutions
Trump suggested that some political rivals, including members of Congress who investigated him, should face legal consequences. While he claimed not to seek revenge, he emphasized his authority as the nation’s chief law enforcement officer.
“Honestly, they should go to jail,” Trump said of certain lawmakers, including former Rep. Liz Cheney and Rep. Bennie Thompson.
He confirmed plans to pardon supporters convicted for their roles in the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, calling it a priority for his first day in office. However, Trump indicated he would leave broader prosecutorial decisions to his attorney general nominee, Pam Bondi.
Immigration Priorities
Trump pledged aggressive immigration reforms, including mass deportations and measures to seal the U.S.-Mexico border. He hinted at using executive orders to end birthright citizenship, despite constitutional protections.
While promising to deport millions of undocumented immigrants, Trump also expressed interest in preserving family unity, suggesting a need to send families back together if deportations occur.
NATO Membership and Ukraine Aid
Trump reaffirmed U.S. membership in NATO but conditioned it on allies meeting financial commitments. “If they pay their bills … absolutely, I’d stay with NATO,” he said.
On Ukraine, Trump signaled a likely reduction in U.S. aid to counter Russia’s invasion.
“Possibly. Yeah, probably. Sure,” he said when asked about cutting assistance. He reiterated his call for an immediate ceasefire and described himself as actively working on peace negotiations.
Federal Reserve and FBI Leadership
Trump confirmed Federal Reserve Chairman Jerome Powell would remain in his role until his term ends in 2028, despite earlier criticism of Powell’s monetary policy.
Social Security and Health Care
Trump promised to protect Social Security benefits, asserting that his administration would make the system “more efficient” without raising retirement ages or cutting benefits.
On health care, Trump offered vague assurances, saying he had “concepts” to replace the Affordable Care Act while maintaining protections for preexisting conditions.
Abortion Policy
Trump continued to waver on abortion policy. He said he would “probably” not restrict access to abortion pills, which account for most pregnancy terminations in the U.S., but added, “Things do change.”
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