In his first broadcast interview since re-election, President-elect Donald J. Trump shared his bold plans for his second term. He outlined significant changes in immigration, criminal justice, and executive power.
Pardon for Capitol Rioters
Trump confirmed he would pardon hundreds of people involved in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riot. He said he would grant clemency to them on his first day in office. However, he added that some, especially those who were “radical, crazy,” might not receive pardons. Trump defended the rioters who attacked law enforcement, claiming, “They had no choice.” He also criticized the conditions in which they are being held, calling them “filthy” and “disgusting.”
Ending Birthright Citizenship
Trump also promised to end birthright citizenship, which grants citizenship to children born in the U.S., regardless of their parents’ immigration status. Despite legal experts calling this unconstitutional, Trump said, “We’re going to have to get it changed.” He suggested using executive actions or pushing for a constitutional amendment. Trump wrongly claimed, “We’re the only country that has it,” even though 34 other nations have similar laws.
Immigration and Dreamers
Trump expressed a willingness to work with Democrats to protect Dreamers—undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children. He said, “We have to do something about the Dreamers,” noting that many of them are now adults and don’t speak the language of their home countries. He blamed Democrats for not protecting them, even though the DACA program, created by Obama, shields Dreamers from deportation.
FBI and Federal Agencies
Trump hinted at major changes in federal agencies, especially the FBI. He criticized FBI Director Christopher A. Wray over the investigation into his handling of classified documents and the agency’s response to his recent assassination attempt. Trump stated, “He invaded my home,” referring to the FBI’s 2022 search of his Mar-a-Lago estate. While he didn’t explicitly say he would fire Wray, he suggested it was likely if Kash Patel, a loyalist, took a key role.
Threats Against Investigators
Trump also targeted members of the House committee that investigated him. He claimed they “should go to jail” for their actions, specifically calling out Liz Cheney. Although Trump said he would not directly order investigations, he implied they should be pursued. Cheney sharply rebuked him, saying his comments were an attack on the rule of law.
Legal and Political Concerns
Trump’s proposals have raised legal and political concerns. Many federal judges, including some he appointed, have criticized the idea of pardoning the Capitol rioters. As Trump prepares to take office, his plans—especially on immigration and criminal justice—are sparking debates about their legality and ethics.