Trump asserted that his administration had turned around what he called an economic crisis brought about by former President Joe Biden.
“We inherited a disaster, and now we’ve significantly reduced inflation,” he stated, claiming that growth had been “extraordinary,” according to News18.
He boasted that fourth-quarter GDP growth was expected to surpass 5% and noted that numerous factories were being built throughout the US, attributing this progress to tariffs and substantial investment commitments from major companies like Apple, NVIDIA, Ford, General Motors, and Hyundai.
Additionally, he remarked that stock markets and retirement accounts had reached unprecedented levels, insisting that Americans’ real incomes had increased.
However, Trump expressed frustration over the ineffective communication of his accomplishments. “Maybe I have ineffective public relations people, but we’re not getting it across,” he said, as per News18.
Immigration, ICE and Minnesota protests
Immigration was a significant focus during the press briefing, with Trump accusing the Biden administration of implementing “open border policies” that allegedly permitted violent criminals to enter the country.
Displaying photographs of individuals he claimed were apprehended by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Trump stated, “These are serious criminals,” labeling them as “vicious”.
Read more: Trump says US will wipe out Iran if it assassinates him
He specifically mentioned Minnesota while supporting ICE operations, alleging that protests against enforcement measures were orchestrated by “paid agitators”.
Trump commended ICE and Border Patrol officers, asserting they faced undue criticism while managing what he referred to as “rough individuals”.
Foreign policy, NATO and Greenland
Regarding foreign policy, Trump indicated a willingness to engage with Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado.
Trump also revived discussions concerning NATO and Greenland, claiming the alliance was established due to his influence and questioning its commitment to safeguarding the US.
“Nobody has contributed more to NATO than I have,” he claimed.
When asked how far he would go to obtain Greenland, Trump replied, “You’ll find out.”
Tariffs, courts and prosecutors
Trump cautioned that he would consider alternative revenue sources if the Supreme Court invalidates tariffs imposed under emergency powers.
Read more: Trump signs order to limit Wall Street investors in single-family housing
“I will need to use something else,” he said, describing tariffs as “the strongest, the fastest, the easiest” solution, according to News18.
He also criticized prosecutors associated with cases against him, accusing them of political bias and reiterating his claims that his administration had eradicated what he labeled the “weaponisation” of government.
