President-elect Donald Trump, in a wide-ranging phone interview with NBC News’ “Meet the Press” moderator Kristen Welker, shared his plans for his first week in office, including signing a record-setting number of executive actions and addressing mass deportations and wildfire damage in Los Angeles.
Trump emphasized the theme of his inauguration speech, which will focus on “unity and strength, and also the word ‘fairness.’” He acknowledged the hardships endured during the four-year Trump administration and emphasized the need for action to address these issues. Trump expressed his determination to prevent such occurrences and ensure a fair and just future for all.
Moving the inauguration indoor
In response to a dangerously cold weather forecast, Trump decided to move his inauguration ceremony indoors to the U.S. Capitol on Friday. This will be the first time the inauguration has been held indoors since 1985. Trump expressed confidence in the decision, stating that the weather forecast predicted a high of around 20 degrees and bitter winds, posing risks to the crowds and other attendees. He believed that moving the ceremony indoors would ensure the safety and comfort of everyone present.
Trump also announced that his supporters would be able to watch the inauguration ceremony from Capitol One Arena, the same venue where he will hold a rally on Sunday afternoon. Additionally, Trump shared his excitement about the upcoming parade, describing it as “going to be beautiful, actually.” He clarified that the parade would be held indoors, providing a more sheltered and enjoyable experience for spectators.
During the phone interview, Trump’s youngest son, Barron, unexpectedly walked in. Trump expressed his admiration for his son, acknowledging his significant role in his online outreach efforts.
Trump praised Barron’s contributions, stating that he had introduced him to individuals he had never encountered before. He emphasized that this was a new approach and that Barron had been instrumental in its success.
Mass Deportation
Regarding mass deportations, Trump reaffirmed that they would be a top priority for his administration. However, he did not provide a specific date or location for the commencement of these deportations. Instead, he indicated that they would begin promptly and without delay.
Trump emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the deportations would commence very early and quickly. He cautioned against disclosing the specific cities involved, as the situation was still evolving. He believed that revealing the cities would compromise the effectiveness of the operation.
Trump reiterated his unwavering commitment to removing criminals from the country and expressed his belief that most people would agree with this objective. He expressed his frustration with those who could not comprehend the urgency of this matter.
Executive action
Regarding executive actions, Trump revealed that he had yet to determine the exact number of executive actions he would sign upon taking office. However, he expressed his conviction that it would be a record-breaking number.
When asked if the number would exceed 100, Trump responded with a resounding affirmation, stating, “Well, at least in that category.”
Trump further emphasized that he would be signing a record-breaking number of documents shortly after his inauguration speech.
Tiktok
Lastly, Trump addressed the ongoing controversy surrounding the popular video app TikTok. He announced that a ban on TikTok would take effect on Sunday, following the Supreme Court’s upholding of a bipartisan law that prohibits TikTok in the United States unless its Beijing-based parent company, ByteDance, is acquired by a buyer located outside of China.
President Joe Biden’s administration has indicated it won’t enforce the ban and will leave its implementation to Trump, who will take office the following day.
Trump mentioned considering a 90-day extension.
“I believe that would certainly be an option we consider,” he said. “The 90-day extension is likely to be done because it’s appropriate. We must carefully examine it. It’s a significant situation.”
“If I decide to do that, I’ll likely announce it on Monday,” he added.
Los Angeles wildfires
Trump expressed his intention to visit Los Angeles next week to address the wildfire damage.
He stated that his team will approach the situation from various perspectives and will demand the release of water from the north into the lower parts of California.
Trump mentioned that he will likely visit Los Angeles “at the end of the week.”
“I was planning to go yesterday, but I thought it would be more appropriate if I went as president,” he added.
He hasn’t yet spoken with California Governor Gavin Newsom. The two leaders have engaged in a dispute since the wildfires began, with Trump blaming the fires on potential 2028 presidential candidate Gavin Newsom, while Newsom criticized Trump for spreading misinformation.
Middle East peace deal
Early Saturday, the Israeli government approved a ceasefire and hostage-release deal. Thirty-three Israeli hostages held in Gaza are set to be released in exchange for 1,904 Palestinian prisoners and detainees.
When asked by NBC News about his confidence in the hostage release, Trump responded, “We’ll see very soon, and it better hold.”
He also conveyed his message to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, urging him to continue taking necessary actions to end the conflict.
Trump announced that he would be meeting with Netanyahu “fairly soon,” but he refused to provide further details about the meeting.
Trump also discussed his administration’s plan to ensure the ceasefire holds, stating that it would be achieved through “good government.”
“Respect. The United States must regain respect, and it must do so swiftly. However, respect is the primary concept that I emphasize. If they respect us, the ceasefire will be maintained. Conversely, if they do not respect us, chaos will ensue.”
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