President Trump Marks One-Year Anniversary of Second Term With Exclusive White House Interview

Enjoying this? Share it with someone who needs to see it.

Up Next

Donald Trump on Viktor Orbán, World Leaders, and the Threat to Democracy Under Biden-Harris

Donald Trump on Viktor Orbán, World Leaders, and the Threat to Democracy Under Biden-Harris

1:41

Biden Blames Gas Stations for High Fuel Prices as Bezos Calls Out White House Misdirection

Biden Blames Gas Stations for High Fuel Prices as Bezos Calls Out White House Misdirection

9:23

Tucker Carlson on Venezuela Operation: America Explicitly Becomes an Empire and What That Means for Free Speech

Tucker Carlson on Venezuela Operation: America Explicitly Becomes an Empire and What That Means for Free Speech

1:42:39

President Trump Marks One-Year Anniversary of Second Term With Exclusive White House Interview

President Donald Trump sits down for an exclusive interview at the White House to mark the one-year anniversary of his second term. Trump discusses the ongoing deportation efforts in Minnesota, the subpoenas issued against Governor Tim Walz and other Democratic officials, and addresses the $19 billion in allegedly stolen funds. He explains his perspective on the Insurrection Act, defends ICE operations against criminal gangs like MS-13 and Tren de Aragua, and shares his vision for Greenland's national security importance. Trump also reflects on his administration's economic achievements, including record tariff revenues, declining inflation, and the push to codify executive orders. He discusses the Golden Dome missile defense system, AI infrastructure development, the situation with Venezuela and Iran, and his plans for America's 250th birthday celebration.

January 22, 2026

Minnesota Remains Ground Zero for Immigration Enforcement

At the one-year anniversary press event, President Trump addressed the ongoing situation in Minnesota, which he described as "ground zero for the left's war" against deportation efforts. The Department of Justice issued subpoenas against several Democratic officials, including Governor Tim Walz, the mayor of Minneapolis, and Attorney General Keith Ellison. Trump highlighted two primary concerns: an alleged $19 billion in stolen money, with expectations the number could climb higher, and what he called "professional paid agitators" disrupting ICE operations.

The president expressed frustration with protesters he believes are not genuine Minnesota residents but rather paid actors causing disruption. He emphasized that ICE operations target murderers, drug dealers, and members of dangerous gangs like Tren de Aragua and MS-13, describing them as "the worst gangs in the world." Trump also criticized Representative Ilhan Omar, questioning how she accumulated an estimated $30 million in wealth and suggesting she should be investigated for dishonesty.

Insurrection Act Remains an Option But Not Yet Necessary

When questioned about invoking the Insurrection Act to enforce federal law in areas where local governments refuse cooperation, Trump stated it wasn't necessary yet but remained a possibility. He noted that over 40% of presidents have used the act during their terms, with some using it multiple times. The Insurrection Act would allow federal law enforcement to bypass court systems and operate more efficiently in jurisdictions where local officials obstruct deportation efforts.

Trump pointed to successes in areas where his administration has deployed federal resources, citing dramatic crime reductions in Washington, DC, Louisiana, and Memphis. He contrasted the current safety of Washington, DC with conditions from over a year ago, noting that restaurants that were closing are now thriving and families feel safe walking the streets. The president criticized Virginia's new Democratic Governor Abigail Spanberger for immediately repealing cooperation between ICE agents and local law enforcement upon taking office.

The Strategic Importance of Greenland

Trump defended his administration's pursuit of Greenland, explaining its critical importance for national security. He described Greenland's location as vital for defending against threats from Russia and China, noting the presence of Russian military ships and Chinese vessels in the region. The president connected Greenland's strategic value to his "Golden Dome" missile defense system, which he said would protect the country by intercepting missiles traveling at thousands of miles per hour with near-perfect accuracy.

Trump credited Ronald Reagan with envisioning such a defense system decades ago, noting that the technology wasn't available then but is now highly advanced. When asked about the European Union's threat to launch a "trade bazooka" in response to the Greenland pursuit, Trump dismissed the threat, pointing out that European countries already fine American companies billions of dollars. He expressed confidence that any trade retaliation would "go ricocheting backward" and suggested a deal might be reached during his upcoming trip to Davos.

Economic Success and the Tariff Revolution

Trump highlighted extraordinary economic achievements during his first year back in office, emphasizing that tariff revenue has generated over $18 trillion in commitments for businesses to build in the United States. He described this as unprecedented in American history, with thousands of businesses constructing manufacturing plants, AI facilities, and other operations to avoid paying tariffs. The president noted that no other country has come close to attracting this level of investment.

Mortgage rates have declined below 6% for the first time in years, inflation has dropped to 1% in recent months, and gas prices have fallen to $1.99 per gallon in many states. Trump contrasted these figures with the Biden administration, which saw gas prices reach $4.50 to $5.00 per gallon and the highest inflation in history. He expressed confidence that the economy would experience "an explosion of success" as new facilities come online and thousands of businesses begin operations.

Codifying Executive Orders and Congressional Agenda

The president revealed his desire to have Congress codify his executive orders into law, ensuring they cannot be easily reversed by future administrations. He highlighted quality-of-life improvements like restoring proper water flow from faucets and shower heads, eliminating paper straws that "melt in your mouth," and removing other regulations that limited basic functionality. While these examples might seem minor, Trump emphasized they represent common-sense improvements that Americans appreciate.

Looking toward the midterm elections, Trump acknowledged that Democrats would likely attempt to impeach him again if they gain control of Congress, potentially over any trivial matter. He recalled being impeached twice during his first term over what he characterized as "perfect" actions, including a phone call and other incidents that he believes were politically motivated. Despite this threat, the president expressed confidence in his legislative agenda and the unity of his current cabinet.

AI Infrastructure and Energy Independence

Trump outlined a revolutionary approach to supporting America's artificial intelligence industry by allowing companies to build their own electrical plants. He explained that the national grid system cannot handle the massive electricity demands of AI facilities, which require more than double the country's current electrical capacity. By permitting AI companies to function as their own utilities and construct dedicated power plants alongside their facilities, the administration has solved a critical infrastructure bottleneck.

The president emphasized that this approval process is proceeding rapidly under EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin, contrasting federal efficiency with California's failures. He noted that homes destroyed in California wildfires received federal approvals within two weeks over a year ago, yet still lack state and local approvals to rebuild. Trump attributed this to failures by the mayor and governor, highlighting the contrast between federal competence and state-level dysfunction.

Venezuela, Iran, and National Security

Trump addressed the successful operation against Venezuelan dictator Maduro, describing the attack on his compound as "amazing" from a military and strategic standpoint. The operation penetrated a heavily fortified location in the middle of an army base without American casualties, utilizing sonic weapons that incapacitated Cuban bodyguards. The president suggested Maduro might cooperate with the Department of Justice and potentially provide intelligence about Russian and Iranian activities in Venezuela.

Regarding Iran, Trump revealed that the regime canceled or postponed hundreds of scheduled hangings following his administration's pressure. However, reports indicate Iran continues burning protesters alive and issued an assassination threat against the president. Trump stated he has delivered firm notification to Iran that any attack on him would result in the entire country being "blown up" and "wiped off the face of this earth." He criticized the Biden administration for failing to respond to previous Iranian threats.

Hostage Situations and Taliban Negotiations

When asked about American hostage Dennis Coyle, who has been held by the Taliban for nearly a year, Trump acknowledged he wasn't fully familiar with the specific case but promised to take action. He stated he would use his internet communication platforms to put pressure on the Taliban and expressed unhappiness about them holding anyone, especially someone innocent of wrongdoing. The president's track record of successfully negotiating hostage releases from various countries was referenced as evidence of his commitment to bringing Americans home.

Legacy and Historical Reflection

Trump reflected on his presidency as America approaches its 250th birthday, comparing his role to George Washington and other founding presidents. He described his second term as potentially more impactful than his first, despite the first term's accomplishments including rebuilding the military, achieving the largest tax cuts in history, and creating the strongest economy in American history. The president characterized his first term as being "the hunted" due to investigations and impeachments, while now he considers himself "more of the hunter."

The president expressed his desire for his legacy to be remembered as "a great president," encompassing safety, prosperity, and happiness for the country. He cited unnamed sources who described his first year back as "probably the best first year that a president has ever had." Trump emphasized that his accomplishments include restoring America's reputation globally, with the King of Saudi Arabia allegedly stating that America went from being "a dead nation" to "the hottest nation anywhere in the world" within his first year.

White House Renovations and Infrastructure

Trump provided updates on White House construction projects, including the new ballroom being built under budget and ahead of schedule. The facility will accommodate 5,000-6,000 people with high ceilings, bulletproof glass, and drone-proof construction. He explained that the White House lacks adequate space for major events, currently relying on tents that become dangerous and problematic when it rains. The new ballroom will provide a secure, climate-controlled venue that Trump believes will host future inaugurations due to safety and weather concerns.

The president also discussed his controversial proposal to place an Arctic Trump sculpture on Memorial Bridge, though he provided limited details about the project's status. His renovation efforts extend to the Oval Office, where he replaced minimal artwork from previous administrations with paintings from the White House vault that hadn't been displayed in over 150 years. Trump personally researched and selected portraits of historic presidents and landscapes, bringing attention to artwork that had been sealed away for generations.

Republican Future and Presidential Safety

When asked about potential Republican presidential candidates who could continue his legacy, Trump acknowledged having favorites but said it was too early to specify names. He praised his current team including JD Vance, Marco Rubio, Scott Bessent, Tom Homan, and Kristi Noem for their outstanding performance. The president expressed confidence in the Republican bench, stating there are numerous talented individuals capable of carrying forward his agenda beyond his second term.

Addressing safety concerns following two assassination attempts and the death of supporter Charlie Kirk, Trump stated he doesn't worry about threats despite acknowledging the dangers. He revealed that the presidency has a 5.2% fatality rate, dramatically higher than professions typically considered dangerous like race car driving or bull riding, which each have only 0.1% fatality rates. Despite these statistics, Trump expressed confidence in the Secret Service and military protection surrounding him, noting that anyone who attempted an attack would be "gone" due to the extensive security measures in place.

Video Transcript

Link copied to clipboard!