President Trump made a surprise call-in to the premiere of C-SPAN's new evening program on Monday, using the appearance to defend his administration's immigration enforcement and to push back against a Republican-led impeachment effort targeting his defense secretary.
During the first episode of Washington Journal Primetime, host Mimi Geerges pressed Trump on his earlier remarks that the massive deportation crackdown might be "too tough," a comment that came after Republicans suffered significant losses in the midterm elections. Trump clarified that the operations are focused on removing the "worst of the worst" immigrants, not on low-level workers.
"We haven't put the same pressure on waitresses and on farm workers, etc.," Trump said. "Not even close."
The president's defense of his immigration policy comes as his administration has signaled an unyielding stance on enforcement, a position reinforced by recent personnel moves. Stephen Miller's elevation to chief of staff underscores the administration's commitment to hardline measures.
Geerges also questioned Trump about the impeachment resolution filed by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) against Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Massie introduced eight articles of impeachment on Monday, accusing Hegseth of violating the Constitution and federal law through U.S. military operations in Iran and other conflicts.
Trump voiced strong support for his Pentagon chief, saying he "would be disappointed" if House Republicans voted for the resolution. "Look, Pete has won two wars. He's been the head person in two wars," the president said, referencing U.S. military actions in Venezuela and Iran.
This is not the first time Trump has publicly backed Hegseth. Last week, he told ABC News's Jonathan Karl that he had "every intention" of keeping Hegseth in his Cabinet. However, in the C-SPAN interview, Trump acknowledged that confirming a replacement would be easier before Democrats assume control of Congress next year, noting Hegseth's reported interest in running for the Senate seat held by Tennessee Republican Marsha Blackburn.
On Tuesday morning, Trump renewed his support for Hegseth after the defense secretary addressed the impeachment proceedings in a press conference. "Pete Hegseth gets an 'A' PLUS, PLUS, PLUS for his defense against a disgruntled, angry, defeated, former Congressman, Thomas Massie, a TOTAL LOSER!" Trump wrote on Truth Social.
The impeachment push against Hegseth is part of a broader turbulent return to Washington, with lawmakers facing a packed agenda. The chaotic atmosphere has been marked by surprise briefings and partisan clashes.
Trump's call-in to C-SPAN's new show signals his continued willingness to engage directly with the public, even as his administration faces scrutiny over its aggressive policies. The post-midterm shift toward a more confrontational approach has drawn both praise and criticism.
