President Donald Trump sat down with NBC’s Kristen Welker at Mar-a-Lago for a wide-ranging “Meet the Press” interview aired on May 4. The conversation, his first full-length network appearance since re-entering the White House in January, tackled pressing issues including the U.S. economy, immigration enforcement, due process, and his own obligations under the Constitution.
The exchange drew national attention for Trump’s blunt tone, sweeping economic claims, and reluctance to directly affirm whether he would uphold the U.S. Constitution.
📉 Economic Outlook: “The Greatest Boom in History”
President Trump painted a highly optimistic picture of the U.S. economy, despite reports of a slight contraction in the first quarter of 2025. “I think we’re going to have the greatest economy in the history of our country,” he said, dismissing fears of a recession.
Trump defended his administration’s aggressive trade policy—including new tariffs as high as 145% on Chinese imports—arguing they would benefit domestic industries. He shrugged off concerns about inflation or increased costs, saying Americans could afford to buy fewer goods if prices rose.
“People can buy a little bit less from China,” he told Welker, pushing back on the idea that tariffs would squeeze household budgets.
⚖️ On Upholding the Constitution: “I Don’t Know”
When pressed by Welker on whether he would commit to upholding the Constitution—a core part of the presidential oath—Trump offered a surprising response:
“I don’t know. It depends. It depends on what your definition is,” he said.
Rather than give a direct affirmation, Trump deferred the question to legal experts and advisors, noting that he would “rely on the lawyers.”
The answer has sparked debate, especially given the centrality of the Constitution to presidential authority and accountability.
🚨 Immigration & Due Process: “Not Sure They’re Entitled”
The conversation turned sharply toward immigration policy, where Trump reiterated his call for aggressive deportation efforts and questioned whether all individuals—particularly undocumented immigrants—should be afforded due process.
“I don’t know that you’re entitled. You know, somebody walks into our country, they could be killers,” Trump said. “They don’t have to be given a court case.”
Though he stopped short of saying due process should be abolished, Trump leaned heavily toward expedited removals and framed traditional legal protections as a weakness in the system.
🗳️ Democracy & Dissent: “There’s Always Going to Be Dissent”
When asked about political division, Trump offered a tempered acknowledgment of dissent, calling it a natural feature of democratic systems.
“You’re always going to have dissent. I mean, I can’t even imagine 100% unity. That’s not the way the country works.”
His tone shifted slightly here, showing a rare openness to criticism and acknowledging the diversity of public opinion in a pluralistic society.
🌎 Canada as the 51st State?
In one of the interview’s more unexpected moments, Trump revisited an idea he first floated years ago: the annexation of Canada.
“It’s a great country. You know, they’d be lucky to have us. But we’re not going in militarily,” he joked, ruling out force.
While clearly framed in jest, the comment was one of several where Trump blended foreign policy with personal bravado.
🎖️ Military Parade Plans
Trump confirmed plans to hold a major military parade in June, aligning with Flag Day, the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Army, and his own birthday. He dismissed criticism of the parade’s projected $45 million cost, calling it a demonstration of “strength” and “patriotism.”
📺 Watch the Full Interview
The full transcript and video of President Trump’s May 4 interview with Kristen Welker is available at NBC News.
What do you think about Trump’s economic vision or his stance on the Constitution? Share your thoughts below.
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