In a wide-ranging interview aired Sunday on NBC’s Meet the Press, former U.S. President Donald Trump sparked controversy by saying he’s unsure whether he is required to uphold the U.S. Constitution.
When asked by host Kristen Welker whether both citizens and non-citizens are entitled to due process under the Constitution, Trump responded, “I’m not a lawyer. I don’t know.” Pressed again on whether he must uphold the Constitution as president, Trump reiterated, “I don’t know.”
These remarks drew swift criticism across Washington, including from within his own party. Republican Senator Rand Paul, known for his staunch constitutional views, responded on X: “We’re either a free society governed by the Constitution or we’re not.”
Trump, 78, also addressed speculation about a potential third term in office—something explicitly barred by the 22nd Amendment, which limits presidents to two terms. While he previously hinted at the possibility, saying in March he was “not joking” and that there are “methods” to allow it, Trump backed off slightly in the interview, stating: “This is not something I’m looking to do.”
Nevertheless, Trump campaign merchandise including “Trump 2028” hats remains on sale.
“I’m focused on four great years and handing it over to a great Republican,” he said, naming Vice President JD Vance and Secretary of State Marco Rubio as possible successors.
Asked about concerns he’s steering the country toward authoritarianism, Trump deflected, saying, “Many people love Trump. I won the election.”
Trump’s return to the White House has reignited debate over constitutional norms, particularly his push for mass deportations of undocumented migrants without court hearings. He has defended the policy by calling it a national emergency and claiming that granting due process to all would take “300 years.”
Despite recent economic struggles—including a shrinking economy in the first quarter of 2025—Trump maintained that the country is on strong footing. “Tariffs are going to make us rich,” he said, adding, “The good parts are the Trump economy, the bad parts are the Biden economy.”
He also made questionable claims about gas prices, asserting they had fallen to $1.98 per gallon in some states. The American Automobile Association reported the lowest price was $2.65, with a national average of $3.16.
Looking ahead to Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney’s upcoming visit, Trump revived his long-standing and provocative idea of Canada joining the U.S. as the 51st state. “I’ll always talk about that,” he said, blaming the U.S.–Canada trade imbalance and claiming, “We subsidize Canada.”
Pressed on whether he might consider military action to pressure Canada, Trump said it was “highly unlikely,” but emphasized U.S. strength, touting an elaborate military parade scheduled for his 79th birthday on June 14.
“We have the greatest weapons in the world,” he said. “And we’re going to celebrate it.”
