President-elect Donald Trump has reiterated his tough campaign promises to deport undocumented immigrants, end birthright citizenship, and potentially withdraw the United States from NATO if allies fail to meet financial obligations.
Speaking in his first formal television interview since his election victory, aired Sunday on NBC’s Meet the Press, Trump emphasized his commitment to these controversial policies.
When asked whether he intended to deport “everyone who is here illegally over the next four years” of his presidency, Trump responded unequivocally: “You have to do it.”
This statement underscores his administration’s intention to follow through on the promises that defined his hardline immigration platform during the campaign.
In addition to deportations, Trump doubled down on his pledge to eliminate birthright citizenship, a right enshrined in the US Constitution’s 14th Amendment.
He described the policy as “ridiculous” and indicated he would pursue its abolition through executive action if necessary.
“If we can, through executive action, [we’ll end it],” he said, signaling a direct challenge to the constitutional framework that guarantees citizenship to anyone born on US soil.
Turning his attention to foreign policy, Trump addressed the United States’ relationship with NATO, warning he would “absolutely” consider leaving the alliance if member nations failed to “pay their bills.”
He stressed the importance of allies meeting their financial commitments to ensure fair treatment for the United States. “They have to pay their bills,” Trump asserted.
These remarks have drawn significant attention, as they signal a continuation of Trump’s unconventional and often polarizing approach to governance.
Critics warn that such policies could have profound legal, social, and international implications.
Ending birthright citizenship would likely face intense legal challenges, while mass deportations could strain resources and disrupt communities.
Meanwhile, a U.S. withdrawal from NATO could alter the balance of global security.
Trump’s statements serve as a clear reminder of the dramatic shifts his administration may bring to the country’s domestic and international policies.
With his inauguration weeks away, the world watches closely to see how these pledges translate into action.