US former President Donald Trump evaded a question on whether he has to abide by the US Constitution as Commander-in-Chief, saying in an NBC News interview, “I’m not a lawyer. I don’t know.”
In the interview taped on Friday and broadcast on Sunday, moderator Kristen Welker asked Trump if citizens and non-citizens in the United States are entitled to the due process of law as provided by the Constitution. Trump replied that he did not know. When asked again if he thought he had to enforce the “supreme law of the land,” Trump again said: “I don’t know.”
Trump’s Comments Spark Political Responses
The interview soon generated buzz in Washington, even among his own party. Republican Senator Rand Paul pushed back against Trump’s remarks with a sharp comment on X:
“We’re either a free society governed by the Constitution or we’re not,” posted Paul, a self-proclaimed constitutional conservative.
Trump has previously been criticized for supposedly breaching constitutional norms, especially those regarding immigration. Critics argue that since his return to the White House in January, he has shortchanged due process, with some illegal migrants deported without a hearing in court.
Trump Defends Rapid Deportation Policy
Justifying his contentious immigration position, Trump explained quick deportations by labeling the present scenario a “national emergency.” Trump claimed that to provide every illegal immigrant with a hearing in court would be too time-consuming.
“It would take 300 years,” Trump stated, suggesting that the system is bogged down and due process cannot be given to everyone.
The US Constitution’s Fifth Amendment protects the due process of law for individuals charged with a crime. The 14th Amendment provides equal protection under the law to all persons within the jurisdiction of the United States.
Clarifies Position on Third Term Speculation
Trump also spoke to speculation regarding seeking a third presidential term, which is prohibited under the US Constitution. Although he had earlier toyed with the possibility, he seemed to back away from that position in the NBC interview.
“I’m looking for four great years, and then I’ll hand it over,” Trump stated, indicating a return to a more conventional perspective on term limits.
Constitutional Concerns Resurface Ahead of Election Season
Trump’s remarks have reopened arguments regarding his deference to the Constitution, a theme that has repeatedly appeared throughout his political life. His positions on immigration, constitutional duties, and presidential term limits will most likely continue to take center stage as the 2024 elections draw near.
