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.
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.
