In a revealing NBC News interview, President-elect Donald Trump disclosed potential policy shifts regarding immigration and wage reforms aimed at fostering unity during his upcoming presidency.
The Washington Examiner reported that Trump’s recent interview with NBC News’s Kristen Welker marked a significant public presence since his post-election hiatus, primarily dominated by social media engagement.
Trump, who has been notably reserved in mainstream media interactions since his November victory, took this opportunity to outline his policy agenda for his term starting in January.
During the dialogue, Trump articulated a willingness to revise the federal minimum wage. The current rate, stagnant at $7.25 per hour since 2009, was acknowledged by Trump as “a very low number,” signaling an openness to increase it, which could bridge some partisan divides.
A notable aspect of Trump’s interview was his approach toward "dreamers," immigrants brought to the U.S. illegally as children.
He expressed a desire to collaborate with Democrats to legislate their ability to remain in the U.S., stating, “We’re going to have to do something with them.” This move, diverging from his previous hardline immigration policies, implies a strategic shift toward more inclusive governance.
Trump also touched upon the contentious issue of birthright citizenship. With a proposal that challenges the 14th Amendment, he mentioned, “We’ll maybe have to go back to the people. But we have to end it.” This stance could initiate a profound constitutional debate and significantly alter immigration norms in the U.S.
Controversy also surfaced regarding Trump’s comments on the Jan. 6 riots. He contemplated issuing pardons for those involved, describing their current state: “These people are living in Hell.”
Simultaneously, he criticized the Jan. 6 committee members, labeling them as “political thugs and, you know, creeps,” indicating a possible contentious start to his term with ongoing political rivalries.
Trump’s foreign policy remarks included an intention to end the war in Ukraine, though suggesting the U.S. might scale back military aid.
This aligns with his non-committal stance on U.S. involvement in NATO, setting a tone of potential isolationism or a reduction in international military engagements.
On domestic policies, Trump pledged not to alter the Social Security age or reduce its funding, an assurance likely aimed at mollifying concerns among older voters.
Additionally, he refrained from outlining a clear plan to replace Obamacare, leaving the future of healthcare reform uncertain.
Economic strategies were also hinted at, with Trump acknowledging that the newly imposed tariffs might lead to price increases. Yet, it appears part of a broader strategy to negotiate better trade terms, influencing both domestic manufacturing and international trade relations.
In terms of governance approach, Trump emphasized a desire to unify the country, echoing through his commitment: “I’m going to treat you every bit as well as I have treated the greatest MAGA supporters.”
However, he also hinted at retribution, not through confrontation but via what he terms as success, indicating a complex approach to dealing with opposition.