In a recent interview with CBS News, President Donald Trump made headlines with his candid responses and unapologetic stance on various issues.
The interview, which aired on 60 Minutes, was filled with notable moments, including Trump's defense of his decision to pardon cryptocurrency billionaire Changpeng Zhao, his assertion of America's dominance in the crypto industry, and his continued claims about the 2020 election.
According to RedState, the interview was a testament to Trump's ability to control the narrative, despite attempts by host Norah O'Donnell to steer the conversation towards allegations of "political retribution." Trump deftly countered these accusations, stating, "You know who got indicted? The man you're looking at," and highlighting the improved safety in D.C. following his crime crackdown.
One of the most contentious moments of the interview came when O'Donnell questioned Trump about his decision to pardon Changpeng Zhao, also known as CZ, the founder of Binance. The timing of the pardon, which coincided with Binance's involvement in a $2 billion purchase of stablecoins from World Liberty Financial, a crypto platform run by Trump's sons, raised eyebrows.
However, Trump defended his decision, stating, "My sons are into it. I'm glad they are, because it's probably a great industry, crypto. I think it's good. You know, they're running a business, they're not in government."
Trump also emphasized his commitment to ensuring America's supremacy in the crypto industry, stating his main concern was "not letting China outdo us in that sphere." This sentiment was echoed by his son Eric Trump, who spoke at the Reagan Library in late October, revealing that the Trump Organization had turned to crypto after being deplatformed by several big banks.
Despite O'Donnell's attempts to paint a picture of corruption, Trump remained unflappable. He even warned the CBS anchor against asking such questions, a moment that was not included in the aired episode or the extended version on YouTube. Trump stated, "I'd rather not have you ask the question. But I let you ask it... I'm proud to answer the question. You know why? We've taken crypto."
Trump also took the opportunity to gloat about his victorious October 2024 settlement with CBS News over a deceptively edited Kamala Harris video. He praised new CBS News head Bari Weiss, who is reportedly trying to steer the network in a less-biased direction. Trump stated, "60 Minutes paid me a lot of money... You have a great new leader, frankly, cause the young woman that's leading your whole enterprise is a greatfrom what I know, I don't know her but I hear"
The President also reiterated his belief that the 2020 presidential election was rigged, stating, "I dont wanna start talking about elections. Its too early. One thing I can tell you, the 2020 election was rigged." He added, "And a lotta people say when its rigged youre allowed to do it again. It was rigged. And its been caught. And they and you see the same information that everybody else does. And its coming out now in spades. But with all of that, we have a great bench."
With his characteristic candor and refusal to back down, Trump once again proved that he is anything but a boring interviewee. His comments on crypto, the 2020 election, and his legal victory over CBS News are sure to continue to spark discussion and debate in the coming days.
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