President acknowledges immigration enforcement impact on workers

During a phone call with C-SPAN, Trump responded to a question regarding the deportation of long-term, tax-paying residents alongside those with serious criminal offenses. “We certainly haven’t put the same push on them as we have on the murderers or the drug dealers,” he said. He also referenced concerns about individuals released from mental institutions being brought into the country, describing them as “very dangerous people.”

These remarks follow Trump’s suggestion of potential collaboration with Democrats on immigration solutions for undocumented immigrants who have resided in the U.S. for over a decade, a move made after Republicans lost control of both the House and Senate in last week’s midterm elections. In a recent interview with “60 Minutes,” Trump expressed a desire to address immigration matters.

Trump acknowledged that immigration enforcement has both positive and negative effects on the Republican party, praising border security measures while recognizing criticism surrounding the deportation of workers. “But I get hurt because we also took people that had good jobs,” he stated, referring to individuals employed in sectors like landscaping and hospitality. He noted the conflicting views among Americans, with some advocating for the deportation of all undocumented immigrants and others supporting the continued residency of long-term workers.

While signaling a willingness to “work a deal” for those residing illegally in the U.S. for 10 to 15 years, Trump also insisted at a White House press briefing that “there won’t be amnesty” and his policy remains unchanged.

The president was also asked about a potential impeachment resolution against Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth, expressing disappointment at the prospect of Republican opposition. Regarding the conflict with Iran, Trump indicated a desire for a swift resolution, citing discussions with leaders of neighboring countries who prefer a less intense approach than a potential larger-scale conflict. He suggested that Iran may be open to negotiations.