Overview
In a recent interview, former President Donald Trump stated that he does not foresee running for president again if he loses the 2024 election. Trump also addressed major national issues, including inflation and illegal immigration, while expressing concern for his family’s safety after two recent assassination attempts against him. The FBI continues to investigate the incidents as assassination attempts, adding to the tense atmosphere surrounding Trump’s campaign.
Why It Matters
This interview highlights Trump’s firm stance on national security, energy policy, and the potential consequences of his loss, emphasizing critical challenges facing the country under current leadership.
Who It Impacts
American voters, particularly those concerned about national security, the economy, and immigration, are most directly impacted by the issues raised in Trump’s interview.
Former President Donald Trump, the Republican presidential nominee, revealed in a recent interview that if he loses the 2024 election against Democratic nominee Kamala Harris, he likely will not run for office again. Speaking with journalist Sharyl Attkisson in an interview published on September 22, Trump expressed optimism about his 2024 chances but made it clear that a defeat would mark the end of his political career. “I don’t see that at all,” Trump said when asked if he would run in 2028 if unsuccessful this time around.
The wide-ranging interview covered several pressing issues, including inflation, energy prices, and illegal immigration. Trump, 78, outlined his plan for tackling inflation, stating that energy costs would be central to reducing rising prices. “We’re going to get … energy down by 50 percent in 12 months,” Trump said, explaining that reducing energy costs would impact everything from heating and air conditioning to the operation of small businesses. Trump emphasized that energy prices are critical to the overall economy and that lowering them is key to controlling inflation.
In addition to economic issues, Trump addressed two recent assassination attempts against him. Speaking to both Attkisson and Fox News’ Brian Kilmeade, Trump acknowledged concerns for his family’s safety, stating that he worries about their security as well as his own. He noted that while he does not often speak publicly about these concerns, they remain a significant issue as he continues his campaign. Trump also hinted at broader national security concerns, linking the influx of illegal immigration to rising crime and dangers in the U.S.
During the interviews, Trump provided few details about the assassination attempts but confirmed that the FBI is investigating both incidents. One of the attempts occurred on September 15 at his West Palm Beach golf course, where a man allegedly camped near the perimeter for hours before firing shots. The suspect, Ryan Routh, 58, was arrested after fleeing the scene. Prosecutors have charged him with firearms-related offenses, and additional charges are expected. Routh’s social media activity reportedly showed strong support for Ukraine and criticism of Trump, although no clear motive has been announced by authorities.
The second incident occurred in July when a gunman opened fire at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where Trump was speaking. The shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, was shot and killed by authorities shortly after firing at the former president. Trump narrowly escaped injury, with one shot reportedly grazing his ear. These incidents have raised concerns about the security surrounding Trump and his campaign, but authorities have not indicated any immediate threats to his family.
Trump used the discussion of these assassination attempts to pivot toward the topic of illegal immigration, suggesting that the current policies have allowed dangerous individuals to enter the country. Trump reiterated that immigration control would be a priority if he returns to the White House, and he connected rising crime rates to the recent influx of undocumented migrants. “We’re letting millions of people in, and it’s making this country a dangerous place,” Trump warned, echoing statements he has made throughout his political career.
As Trump campaigns for the 2024 election, his focus on national security, immigration, and economic policy resonates with a significant portion of the electorate. His concerns about rising crime, energy costs, and illegal immigration continue to shape his platform. The upcoming election will likely determine the direction of these critical issues, but Trump’s statement that he would not run again if defeated underscores the high stakes for both his campaign and his supporters.
