Summary of "Trump Holds First Press Conference Since Election" – NPR Politics Podcast

Release Date: December 16, 2024

Introduction

In the December 16, 2024 episode of The NPR Politics Podcast, hosts Sarah McCammon, Frank Ordonez, and Mara Liasson delve into President-elect Donald Trump's first press conference following his victory in the 2024 presidential race. The episode provides a comprehensive analysis of Trump's key policy announcements, his approach to governance, and the immediate reactions from various political and business sectors.

Immigration and Trade Policy

Trump's Stance on Immigration: President-elect Trump reiterated his firm stance on immigration, emphasizing his intention to take a tough approach against both southern and northern borders.

• Threat of Tariffs: At the press conference, Trump announced his plans to "double down on threats to launch a trade war against Mexico and Canada" (01:16). He asserted that these tariffs are a response to the high number of migrants crossing the U.S. borders.

• Economic Claims: Trump claimed that the U.S. is "subsidizing both countries to the tune of hundreds of billions of dollars" (01:20), positioning tariffs as a necessary measure to rectify this imbalance.

• Legal Actions: He also threatened legal action against the Biden administration for allegedly "selling off portions of the border wall" (01:30).

Analysis by NPR Reporters: Frank Ordonez and Mara Liasson dissected Trump's use of tariffs as a multifaceted tool addressing both economic and national security concerns.

• Ordonez noted, "For Trump, what he sees using tariffs is a negotiating tactic to get other things that he wants" (03:09), highlighting the intertwined nature of Trump's policy instruments.

• Liasson pointed out the ambiguity in Trump's tariffs strategy: "If you believe that tariffs... is the solution to every problem... then you have to put the highest tariffs possible... but if you think it's merely a threat... then it’s just a negotiating tool" (04:00).

Notable Quotes:

Trump: "We’re going to pay off the debt with tariffs and tax cuts. That's economically very hard to understand how that works." (02:08)

Ordonez: "He continues to contend that the United States is subsidizing both countries to the tune of hundreds of billions of dollars." (01:20)

Defense Nomination: Pete Hegseth

Controversial Nomination: Trump defended his nominee for the Department of Defense, Pete Hegseth, amidst mounting allegations.

• Background on Pete Hegseth: A former army major and Fox News host, Hegseth faced numerous accusations, including sexual assault and alcohol abuse (04:41).

• Trump's Support: Despite the controversies, Trump publicly supported Hegseth, showcasing him alongside President-elect at events like the Army-Navy football game (05:32).

NPR's Insights: The hosts discussed whether Trump's backing would secure Hegseth's confirmation.

• Ordonez remarked, "It might get him his nominee, but it might just get his nominee to a confirmation hearing" (06:20), indicating potential challenges ahead.

• Liasson highlighted Trump's evolving strategy: "He's saying, I have a movement that's extremely powerful... if I use this movement to threaten sitting Republican senators with primary opponents... it seems like it's working" (05:44).

Notable Quotes:

Trump: "Hegseth was my guest at the Army Navy football game this weekend." (05:32)

Ordonez: "There could be testimony. It could be a difficult confirmation process." (06:20)

Vaccines and Autism Controversy

Trump's Remarks on Vaccines: During the press conference, Trump broached the sensitive topic of vaccines and their alleged link to autism.

• He suggested an openness to the idea, referencing Robert F. Kennedy's stance: "He's suggesting there is a connection between vaccines and autism" (08:23).

Response from NPR: McCammon and Ordonez clarified the scientific consensus, reaffirming that "vaccines do not cause autism" (08:59).

Notable Quotes:

Trump: "Something's wrong and we're going to find out about it." (08:23)

Ordonez: "The scientific consensus among most experts is that vaccines do not cause autism." (08:59)

Other Key Announcements

Potential Pardon of Eric Adams: Trump indicated he is "open to pardoning New York City Mayor Eric Adams," who faces corruption charges (09:04).

Engagement with International Leaders: Highlighting his active role in international affairs during the transition, Trump attended the rededication of the Notre Dame Cathedral in France, signaling his readiness to engage globally even before officially taking office (09:21).

Perception and Relationships Post-Election

Shift in Relations with Business and World Leaders: Liasson observed a notable change in how business and international leaders interact with Trump post-election.

• "World leaders and business leaders... think that there's a different way of dealing with him than just blanket resistance" (11:29).

• This shift is partly due to Trump's willingness to adapt positions, such as his newfound support for cryptocurrency, contrasting his earlier skepticism (12:24).

Notable Quotes:

Liasson: "Trump is seen as a more legitimate figure because he won the popular vote." (11:29)

Ordonez: "He is seen as a more legitimate figure... they're just going to see if they can deal with him in a different way." (12:24)

Concluding Remarks

The episode concluded with reflections on the unusual nature of the U.S. transition period, where actions by the incoming president-elect can create a semblance of dual administrations. The hosts emphasized the implications of Trump's proactive engagement during this period and its potential impact on his forthcoming administration.

Key Takeaways

• Tariffs as a Central Tool: Trump is leveraging tariffs not only as an economic measure but also as a strategic tool in foreign policy negotiations, particularly concerning immigration.

• Controversial Nominations: Despite facing accusations, Trump remains steadfast in his support for nominees like Pete Hegseth, utilizing his political influence to navigate the confirmation process.

• Public Health Statements: Trump's remarks on vaccines and autism may stir public debate, despite prevailing scientific consensus dismissing such claims.

• Evolving Diplomatic Relations: Business and world leaders are adjusting their approaches to engage with Trump, recognizing his influence and the shifting political landscape.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Frank Ordonez (01:16): "He basically doubled down on threats to launch a trade war against Mexico and Canada."

• Mara Liasson (02:08): "Tariffs is the most beautiful word in the English language."

• Frank Ordonez (03:09): "For Trump, what he sees using tariffs is a negotiating tactic to get other things that he wants."

• Mara Liasson (04:00): "If you believe that tariffs... is the solution to every problem... then it’s just a negotiating tool."

• Frank Ordonez (06:20): "It could be a difficult confirmation process."

• Mara Liasson (11:29): "World leaders and business leaders think that there's a different way of dealing with him than just blanket resistance."

This detailed summary encapsulates the critical discussions and insights from the NPR Politics Podcast episode, providing listeners with a comprehensive understanding of Trump's policy directions and the political dynamics unfolding during the transition period.