In an exclusive interview with NBC’s “Meet the Press,” President-elect Donald Trump unveiled sweeping plans to reshape domestic and foreign policy as soon as he takes office on January 20. Trump pledged to issue pardons for individuals convicted in connection to the January 6 Capitol attack, impose tariffs on major trading partners, and initiate a large-scale deportation effort targeting millions of undocumented immigrants.
Speaking with “Meet the Press” moderator Kristen Welker from Trump Tower in Manhattan, the president-elect detailed several key priorities for his second term, including measures on immigration, tax cuts, and government spending. Trump also expressed a willingness to collaborate with Democrats on issues such as a legislative solution for Dreamers—individuals brought to the U.S. illegally as children.
“We’re going to have to do something with them,” Trump said, praising Dreamers who have achieved professional success and contributed to the economy.
Immigration at the Forefront
Immigration policy remains central to Trump’s agenda, with promises of mass deportations starting with individuals convicted of crimes and potentially expanding beyond. When pressed on the fate of mixed-status families, Trump emphasized that families would not be separated, suggesting they would face deportation together.
“We’re starting with the criminals,” Trump stated. “But we’re going to see how it goes.”
Trump also reiterated his intent to end birthright citizenship, a move likely to face significant legal and constitutional challenges. He left open the possibility of amending the Constitution to achieve this goal, adding, “We’ll maybe have to go back to the people.”
Economic Plans and Tax Cuts
Trump outlined a continuation of tax cuts introduced during his first term and affirmed his opposition to raising the eligibility age for Social Security and Medicare, distancing himself from calls for entitlement reform. “I won’t do it,” he said.
On trade, Trump pledged to impose tariffs on imports, though he acknowledged the potential impact on American consumers. “I can’t guarantee American families won’t pay more,” he admitted, adding, “I can’t guarantee tomorrow.”
Jan. 6 Pardons and DOJ Autonomy
Trump declared that pardons for those convicted in connection to the January 6 attack would be among his first actions as president. Describing the treatment of rioters in prison as overly harsh, he said, “These people are living in hell.”
However, when asked if he would direct the Department of Justice to pursue his political adversaries, Trump struck a more measured tone. “I’m not looking to go back into the past. Retribution will be through success,” he said.
Trump has nominated allies Pam Bondi and Kash Patel for top law enforcement roles, emphasizing their autonomy in executing the law.
Foreign Policy Priorities
Turning to foreign affairs, Trump discussed the war in Ukraine, suggesting the country may see reduced military aid from the U.S. under his administration. He also expressed doubts about NATO’s future, contingent on member countries meeting financial obligations.
“If they pay their bills, absolutely,” Trump said of maintaining the U.S. role in the alliance.
Later Friday, Trump traveled to Paris to attend the reopening of Notre Dame Cathedral, where he met with French President Emmanuel Macron and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss efforts toward a “just peace” in Ukraine.
A New Inaugural Vision
Reflecting on the tone of his upcoming inaugural address, Trump promised a message of unity, a sharp contrast to his 2017 speech that warned of “American carnage.”
“This time, it’s going to be a message of unity,” Trump said. When asked directly, he assured, “No American carnage, no.”
Trump also addressed his critics, pledging to govern inclusively. “I’m going to treat you every bit as well as I have treated the greatest MAGA supporters,” he said.
