In a recent interview on NBC News' Meet The Press with Kristen Welker, President Donald Trump raised concerns about the due process rights of individuals in the United States. Trump claimed that the legal system is obstructing his plans to deport millions of undocumented immigrants. When directly questioned about his obligation to uphold the Constitution, Trump responded ambiguously, stating, "I don't know."
NPR reporter Luke Garrett provided insights into Trump's statements regarding the Fifth Amendment, which guarantees the right to due process. During the interview, Kristen Welker asked Trump if he believes both citizens and noncitizens are entitled to due process rights. Trump expressed his desire to deport millions but was uncertain about whether those being deported deserved this constitutional protection. When confronted about a potential violation of the Fifth Amendment, Trump highlighted that he was elected with a mandate for mass deportation, suggesting that the courts are hindering his efforts.
Welker pressed further, asking Trump if he felt it was necessary to uphold the Constitution as president. Trump's response was noncommittal, referencing his team of "brilliant lawyers" who would adhere to the Supreme Court's decisions.
Garrett noted that Trump's views align with statements from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). Spokeswoman Tricia McLaughlin has indicated that individuals classified as terrorists are subject to a different standard of due process under the Alien Enemies Act. The Supreme Court is expected to weigh in on these issues, as lower courts have already started to make rulings. Recently, a court partially blocked Trump's attempt to use the Alien Enemies Act to deport Venezuelans.
When the conversation shifted to the economy, Garrett reported that Trump expressed a lack of concern about an impending economic recession, although he did not completely dismiss the possibility. The Commerce Department recently revealed that the U.S. economy contracted at an annual rate of 0.3% in the first quarter. Economists typically define a recession as two consecutive quarters of economic decline. While Trump acknowledged some negative economic indicators, he attributed these issues to former President Joe Biden.
During the interview, when asked if a short-term recession could be beneficial for long-term economic gains, Trump referred to the current situation as a "transition period," expressing optimism about future economic performance. He stated, "I think we're going to do fantastically."
Regarding tariffs, Trump did not announce any new trade deals but mentioned that relations with China concerning tariffs are improving. He indicated that he intends to lower tariffs eventually to facilitate business with China. However, he also emphasized that he would not eliminate the possibility of permanent tariffs, stating, "No, I wouldn't do that because if somebody thought they were going to come off the table, why would they build in the United States?"
In summary, Trump's recent comments during the NBC interview have sparked significant discussion about due process rights, economic forecasts, and tariff policies. Observers will be closely monitoring developments in these areas, especially concerning the anticipated trade deals with China.
For further updates and analysis on these topics, stay tuned to NPR and other trusted news sources.
