In an in-depth conversation on America’s top podcast, former President Donald Trump joined Joe Rogan for a three-hour interview that touched on everything from past presidential decisions to high-profile diplomatic interactions. Trump offered reflections on what he described as his “biggest mistake” in office, his unique exchanges with North Korea’s leader, and even extraterrestrial life. This interview was a notable shift in tone for Rogan, who previously declined Trump as a guest, once calling him “an existential threat to democracy.” However, the two were conversational, discussing mutual interests such as the UFC and connections like Elon Musk.
The Republican campaign sees this interview as a way to strengthen Trump’s support base among male voters, the core demographic for the Joe Rogan Experience. With 14.5 million followers on Spotify and 17.5 million subscribers on YouTube, Rogan’s audience is influential. The interview prompted Trump to reroute to Austin, Texas, before an important Michigan rally in Traverse City, arriving hours late to the event.
Contents
Trump Reflects on His ‘Biggest Mistake’
In discussing his presidency, Trump identified his “biggest mistake” as hiring “a few people [he] shouldn’t have picked,” mentioning specific individuals he felt were untrustworthy or damaging. “Neocons or bad people or disloyal people,” Trump told Rogan, citing his former chief-of-staff, John Kelly, as a “bully but a weak person.” Recently, Kelly had publicly accused Trump of having “fascist” tendencies. Trump also labeled his former National Security Adviser John Bolton as “an idiot,” though he acknowledged Bolton’s impact by adding, “He was good in a certain way… He’s a nutjob.” Recalling how Bolton’s presence gave foreign leaders the impression of impending U.S. military action, Trump said, “They said, ‘Oh man, Trump’s going to go to war with us.’”
Candid Advice for Kim Jong-un
Trump shared insights into his controversial rapport with North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, describing how their initial threats softened over time. Trump said he had urged Kim to focus less on military power, reportedly telling him, “Why don’t you go take it easy? Go to the beach, relax.” Trump added humorously, “Let’s build some condos on your shore,” which he framed as an attempt to encourage a more relaxed approach to governing.
On Russia’s Ukraine Invasion
Touching on the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict, Trump argued that Putin would not have invaded Ukraine if he had been in office. He explained that his approach to Putin was firm, saying, “I said, ‘Vladimir, you’re not going in.’” Although he did not elaborate on their conversations, Trump implied he had a direct impact on Putin’s decisions, asserting that Putin proceeded because “he doesn’t respect Biden at all.” This remark is in line with criticism from some who suggest Trump was lenient toward authoritarian leaders.
Rehashing the 2020 Election Controversy
The 2020 election surfaced in the discussion, with Rogan pressing Trump on his claims of voter fraud. Trump doubled down, declaring the election “the most crooked.” Although he did not provide specific evidence during the interview, he referenced supposed irregularities in Wisconsin and alleged that Democrats “used Covid to cheat.” When asked by Rogan if he would ever present proof, Trump shifted focus, discussing the controversy surrounding Hunter Biden’s laptop and the claim that intelligence officials dismissed it as “Russian disinformation.”
Critiques of Political Figures
Trump continued by scrutinizing several political figures, particularly his Democratic opponent, Vice-President Kamala Harris, whom he described as a “very low IQ person.” He also disparaged California Governor Gavin Newsom as “one of the worst governors in the world.” Trump reserved praise for his allies, including Elon Musk, calling him “the greatest guy,” and revealed he might consider Robert F. Kennedy Jr. for a role in a future administration. Kennedy, who has a strong connection with Rogan, recently endorsed Trump.
Extraterrestrial Life and the Possibility of Aliens
The discussion also veered into extraterrestrial life. Trump admitted he hadn’t dismissed the possibility of alien life, mentioning pilots who had observed “very strange” objects. When Rogan pointed out that there is no evidence of life on Mars, Trump countered, “Maybe it’s life that we don’t know about,” keeping the mystery alive.
The End of The Apprentice
Trump revisited his television past, mentioning how NBC executives tried to dissuade him from running for president to keep The Apprentice on air. “They wanted me to stay,” he shared, explaining that NBC cut ties after he launched his presidential campaign in 2015.
Trump’s Health Claims
Amid scrutiny over his health, Trump recounted a physical exam at Walter Reed Hospital, where he reportedly impressed doctors with his endurance on a treadmill. While he didn’t directly address recent calls for transparency on his medical records, Trump remarked that he felt he could “have gone all day” on the treadmill, noting his preference for golf over traditional exercise.
A Revealing Look into Trump’s Views and Strategies
Trump’s interview with Joe Rogan provided a glimpse into his reflections on past decisions, his views on international figures, and a mix of personal anecdotes. The interview appeared to serve as a platform to reaffirm his stance on several issues, particularly the 2020 election and foreign policy while appealing to Rogan’s extensive, predominantly male audience. The exchange underscored Trump’s confidence in his leadership style, with a tone intended to resonate with both his base and potential new supporters.
