President Donald Trump addressed the media in a press conference Tuesday discussing his first round of executive orders, which included pardons for January 6th defendants, measures on immigration, and actions regarding California’s wildfire crisis and tariffs on China.
When questioned about his decision to pardon individuals involved in the January 6th Capitol riot, including DJ Rodriguez, who pleaded guilty to assaulting a police officer, Trump defended the move. “These people have already served years in prison, and they’ve been treated terribly. It’s inhumane,” Trump stated. He drew comparisons to other cities, citing instances of crime in Portland and Seattle where, according to him, perpetrators faced minimal consequences. “The American public is tired of the double standard,” he said, emphasizing that his administration is addressing what he perceives as an imbalance in the justice system.
Trump also took aim at his predecessor, President Joe Biden, accusing him of issuing pardons to individuals with criminal histories and alleging that the January 6th Committee destroyed key evidence. “We are giving people a second chance after they’ve been treated unfairly,” he added.
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Immigration Policy Overhaul:
On immigration, Trump reiterated his commitment to sealing the U.S.-Mexico border, promising to reinstate the “Remain in Mexico” policy and ramp up wall construction. “We’re putting more resources on the border to stop the flow of illegal immigrants and fentanyl,” he said. Trump criticized the governments of Mexico and Canada for allowing what he described as an influx of migrants and drugs into the U.S., vowing to impose tariffs if they fail to take action.
“We are implementing a 25% tariff on goods from Mexico and an additional 10% tariff on Chinese imports if they don’t help us stop the drug crisis,” he announced, blaming both countries for the ongoing fentanyl epidemic.
California Wildfire Relief and Water Policy:
Turning his attention to California, Trump blamed state officials for mismanaging water resources, which he said exacerbated the wildfire crisis. “There’s plenty of water, but they’re letting it flow into the Pacific instead of using it to prevent these disasters,” he argued. Trump signed an executive order directing federal agencies to assist in diverting water resources to affected areas and providing additional support to farmers.
“We are going to make sure that California farmers and residents get the water they need. No more excuses, no more wasted resources,” Trump stated.
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Tariffs on China and Economic Measures:
Addressing economic policies, Trump reaffirmed his commitment to imposing tariffs on Chinese imports, emphasizing the need to protect American jobs and industry. “We have to hold China accountable. They’ve been flooding our markets with cheap products and sending fentanyl into our communities,” he said.
Trump indicated that tariffs of up to 25% could be implemented by February 1st, stressing the urgency of addressing trade imbalances and national security threats posed by China.
Future Plans and Diplomatic Efforts:
The President also touched on his upcoming travel plans, which include visits to Nevada and California to thank voters and assess wildfire damage firsthand. He mentioned ongoing discussions with international leaders, including a potential dialogue with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine.
“We’re going to work towards peace, but we’re not going to let the European Union take advantage of us anymore. They need to contribute their fair share,” Trump said, hinting at a possible shift in U.S. foreign policy commitments.
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In closing, Trump reaffirmed his administration’s focus on law and order, economic growth, and national security, promising continued action in the coming weeks.
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