President Donald Trump offered a detailed analysis of the Republican midterm election defeats during a recent interview with 60 Minutes correspondent Ross Douthat. Speaking days after the GOP lost more than 40 House seats and at least seven Senate seats, the president acknowledged that his administration's economic messaging was flawed and that his immigration enforcement had been too aggressive at times.
According to CBS News exit polling, approximately 63% of midterm voters disapproved of the president's job performance, with 44% citing opposition to him as a key reason for their vote. When asked about the causes of the losses, Trump pointed to voter dissatisfaction with the Iran conflict and rising gas prices. However, he maintained that the primary factor was his absence from the ballot, a point he has reiterated in recent days. He suggested that supporters who were urged to pretend he was a candidate often failed to vote because they preferred other options.
The president defended the economic record, describing the numbers as phenomenal and noting that 401(k) balances have reached all-time highs. Despite these claims, exit polls indicated that three-fourths of voters viewed the economy negatively, with many blaming tariff policies for hurting the nation. Trump attributed this disconnect to poor communication, stating that it was bad messaging, possibly his own, that prevented voters from understanding the positive data. He predicted that economic improvements would become noticeable within the next few months.
Regarding the Iran war, Trump said he would make the same decision again, citing the degradation of Iran's military and nuclear program. He noted that while the decision might be unpopular in the short term, he believes it will be viewed favorably by historians. He compared his situation to that of former President Ulysses S. Grant, whose reputation improved over time. Trump stated he is not looking to escalate the conflict now that the elections are over, though he believes Iran is close to reaching a deal.
On immigration, the president admitted that while he received high marks for securing the border, the deportation of workers with good jobs hurt his political standing. He described the policy as too tough in some cases, particularly regarding individuals who had committed only minor violations. This shift in tone comes as 58% of voters believe the administration's actions have gone too far, causing some Latino voters in battleground states to return to the Democratic column.
In other developments, Trump announced that White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles would be replaced by Stephen Miller. He also indicated that further personnel changes are expected, referring to them as a few changes. While he expressed confidence in Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, he acknowledged that Democrats are seeking his impeachment. The president also addressed his growing wealth, stating that he devotes little time to his net worth and that his sons manage his company.
Looking ahead to the 2028 election, Trump said he would probably endorse a successor, though not necessarily a specific individual. He praised the depth of the Republican talent pool, mentioning Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as potential heirs. Additionally, the president revealed plans to issue a tremendous number of pardons before leaving office, including for January 6 participants, whom he described as unfairly treated.
In a lighter moment, Trump discussed his views on UFOs, noting that military pilots have reported strange sightings. He also reflected on his legacy, saying he hopes to be missed and expressing a desire to go to heaven. When asked if he could forgive his political enemies, he answered honestly that he probably could not, admitting that he still hates some of them.
