President Donald Trump sat down with TIME for a candid interview that touches on several national issues as the midterm elections approach. He reiterated his belief that lasting peace with Iran is unlikely, stating, “By annihilating Iran, we’ve created peace in the world. With Iran, I don’t think you could ever have peace.” He left the door open to further action, adding, “Yeah, I would do that. It’s possible.”
Poll Snapshot
A recent CNN poll shows three quarters of U.S. adults say the president lacks a clear plan for handling the Iran conflict, and 78% feel he is not doing enough to end it. While the numbers reflect public concern, the administration continues to pursue diplomatic channels and maintain pressure on Tehran.
White House Renovations
Trump highlighted a series of construction projects aimed at restoring the White House, which he described as a “disgraceful dump.” Improvements include gilded trim in the Oval Office, stone paving in the Rose Garden modeled after his Mar‑a‑Lago patio, a new “Presidential Walk of Fame” along the West Colonnade, larger flagpoles, a helipad, marble flooring in the Palm Room, and a renovated Lincoln Bedroom bathroom. He also announced a 90,000‑square‑foot ballroom addition that will serve as a military complex.
When pressed on the relevance of these upgrades to voters facing economic pressures, Trump emphasized the symbolic importance of the White House, saying, “It’s a very special symbol of America and our greatness, maybe the most important symbol we have.”
Supreme Court Appointments
The president expressed disappointment with his own Supreme Court nominees, noting that justices Neil Gorsuch, Brett Kavanaugh and Amy Coney Barrett have voted against him “too often.” He cited recent decisions on birthright citizenship and tariffs, acknowledging that the tariff ruling was “disastrous for the country.” Trump clarified that he seeks “good decisions” rather than loyalty from the Court.
Kennedy Center and Potential Pardons
Trump declined to rule out demolishing the Kennedy Center, describing the building as “in terrible shape” and suggesting only a court decision will determine its fate. He also hinted at issuing pardons to members of his administration before leaving office, noting that former President Joe Biden granted broad pardons at the end of his term.
Overall, the interview underscores President Trump’s continued focus on a strong national defense, preservation of American symbols, and a desire for judicial outcomes that align with constitutional principles.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
