In a revealing three-hour conversation on “The Joe Rogan Experience,” former President Donald Trump opened up about his time in the White House, candidly discussing his biggest regrets and taking aim at those he considered disloyal. The much-anticipated podcast, released on Friday, touched on a range of topics from Trump’s 2020 election fraud claims to his thoughts on the future of his political career.
Trump’s Biggest White House Mistake: “Disloyal People”
When Rogan asked about his greatest regret from his presidency, Trump didn’t hesitate. “My biggest mistake was hiring disloyal people,” he declared, without naming specific individuals. The former president went on to disparage “neocons” or neoconservatives, labeling them as “bad people.”
Trump’s comments come on the heels of criticism from his former Chief of Staff John Kelly, who recently suggested that Trump exhibited fascist tendencies and lacked understanding of the Constitution. Kelly also alleged that Trump expressed admiration for Nazi-era German generals.
Kelly is a total whack job.
– Donald Trump responding to Kelly’s comments at a rally
Doubling Down on Election Fraud Claims
Trump reiterated his belief that the 2020 presidential election was “rigged” in favor of Joe Biden. However, when pressed by Rogan to provide evidence substantiating these claims, the former president notably changed the subject.
Critics have long accused Trump of making baseless allegations of widespread voter fraud, arguing that his refusal to accept the election results undermines faith in American democracy.
Addressing Age Concerns and Biden’s Health
At 78 years old, Trump attempted to shift focus from his own age to that of President Biden, 81, who opted not to seek re-election due in part to age-related questions. Trump suggested that Biden’s past brain surgeries, rather than his age, were cause for concern.
It’s not his age. Those are not good operations.
– Trump questioning Biden’s cognitive abilities
Rogan noted that the brain surgeries Trump referred to were life-saving procedures Biden underwent in the 1980s to treat aneurysms.
Rally Delay Frustrates Michigan Supporters
The lengthy Rogan interview, conducted in Austin, Texas, had real-world consequences for Trump’s supporters eagerly awaiting his arrival at an outdoor rally in chilly Traverse City, Michigan. The event, slated to begin at 7:30 pm, was significantly delayed as rallygoers stood in 50°F (10°C) temperatures, with some opting to leave before Trump took the stage.
I am so sorry. We got so tied up, and I figured you wouldn’t mind too much because we’re trying to win.
– Trump apologizing for the rally delay
The Trump-Rogan interview showcased the former president’s unfiltered thoughts on his White House tenure, political rivals, and the controversies that continue to shape his public image. As the 2024 presidential race heats up, Trump’s appearance on the nation’s most popular podcast is sure to keep his base energized while drawing both praise and condemnation from across the political spectrum.
