President Donald Trump made a surprise call-in to the debut episode of C-SPAN's new primetime program, Washington Journal Primetime, on Monday night, using the platform to defend his administration's immigration enforcement and to rally behind Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth amid a Republican-led impeachment push.
Host Mimi Geerges pressed Trump on his recent remark that the administration's deportation crackdown "might be too tough," a comment that came after Republicans suffered significant losses in the midterm elections. Trump sought to clarify, arguing that the efforts are targeted at serious criminals, not everyday workers.
"We haven't put the same pressure on waitresses and on farm workers, etc.," Trump said. "Not even close." He insisted the focus remains on removing the "worst of the worst" immigrants from the United States.
The president's call-in came as his administration faces scrutiny over immigration policy, with some GOP lawmakers and critics questioning the economic and political fallout of the sweeping deportations. His hardline stance has been reinforced by the appointment of Stephen Miller as chief of staff, signaling no retreat on enforcement.
Geerges also questioned Trump about the impeachment articles filed by Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky against Hegseth. Massie introduced eight articles on Monday, accusing the defense secretary of violating the Constitution and federal law in connection with U.S. military operations in Iran and other conflicts.
Trump defended his Pentagon chief, saying, "Look, Pete has won two wars. He's been the head person in two wars," referring to operations in Venezuela and Iran. He reiterated that he would be "disappointed" if House Republicans supported the resolution, and last week he told ABC News's Jonathan Karl that he had "every intention" of keeping Hegseth in the Cabinet.
However, Trump acknowledged during the interview that confirming a replacement would be easier before Democrats take control of Congress next year. He noted Hegseth's reported interest in running for the Tennessee Senate seat currently held by Republican Marsha Blackburn, which could create an opening.
On Tuesday morning, Trump doubled down on his support for Hegseth after the 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 effort against Hegseth is part of a broader chaotic return to Washington following the midterm elections, with Trump and his allies facing internal GOP divisions and a looming Democratic majority. Massie's move has drawn mixed reactions, with some Republicans distancing themselves from the effort.
Meanwhile, Trump's immigration policies continue to draw legal and political challenges, including a recent vote to halt Afghan deportations, highlighting the contentious nature of his agenda as the new Congress prepares to convene.
