Trump Defends Economy and Iran War in 60 Minutes Interview

President Donald Trump defended his administration's handling of the economy and the Iran war during his first sit-down interview following midterm election losses.

Speaking with 60 Minutes correspondent Ross Douthat, the president attributed Republican losses to the fact that he was not on the ballot, while acknowledging some “bad messaging” regarding economic issues.

Analysis of Midterm Losses

Following a series of midterm election losses where Republicans lost more than 40 House seats and at least seven Senate seats, Mr. Trump offered several explanations for the results. He told 60 Minutes that voters “didn’t like the war” with Iran or the soaring gas prices it triggered. However, he maintained that his primary reason for the losses was that “I was not on the ballot.”

I think they didn’t vote. I think in some cases, they didn’t like the candidates.” He also defended his support for specific candidates, such as Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, arguing that incumbent Sen. John Cornyn “would have lost also.”

CBS News exit polling indicated that about 63% of midterm voters disapproved of Mr. Trump’s job performance, and 44% cited opposition to him as a reason for their vote. Three-fourths of midterm voters viewed the economy as poor or not so good.

Economic Performance and Personal Wealth

Mr. Trump defended his economic stewardship, describing the numbers as “phenomenal” and noting that 401(k)s are at an all-time high. If you have a 401k…how’s your 401k doing? It’s about up 85 percent. ‘Thank you, President Trump!’ So we’re all profiting.”

During the interview, Mr. Trump also addressed questions regarding a reported $3 billion increase in his net worth. He claimed he devotes “almost no time” to his net worth and that his son “watches over money.”

Personnel and Immigration

The interview preceded a change in White House leadership; one hour after the segment, the president announced that White House chief of staff Susie Wiles would depart her role and be replaced by Stephen Miller. Mr. Trump also suggested that other top administration officials could be leaving.

Reflecting on his administration’s policies, the president noted that his immigration crackdown was “too tough” at times. He also addressed the Iran war, stating he is “not looking to escalate Iran war.”