Trump Admits He Ignored Counsel From White House And Campaign Attorneys: 'I Didn't Respect Them As Lawyers'

In a recent sit-down with NBC News host Kristen Welker on "Meet the Press," former President Donald Trump shared his perspectives on a variety of pressing issues, including his stance on abortion, the legal challenges he is currently facing and his views on the state of democracy in the U.S.

Legal Battles and Democracy

The former president expressed a fearless attitude towards his ongoing legal battles, asserting he isn't afraid of being incarcerated.

“I don’t even think about it,” Trump said. “I’m built a little differently I guess, because I have had people come up to me and say, ‘How do you do it, sir? How do you do it?’ I don’t even think about it.”

While he affirmed his belief in democracy, he voiced concerns over its current manifestation in the U.S., pinpointing media behavior and the allegations against him as issues.

2020 Election and Self-pardon Speculations

Trump revisited the 2020 election, acknowledging that he disregarded counsel from several lawyers who validated the election's legitimacy. He remained ambiguous about the possibility of granting himself a pardon if he returns to power, calling it "very unlikely."

During the interview he said he didn't listen to White House and campaign attorneys "because I didn't respect them as lawyers." He said those lawyers "turn out to be Republicans in name only, or they turn out to be not so good, in many cases."

Also Read: Former Trump Aide Shaken By Threat From Ex-Boss: 'Does Somebody Have To Get Hurt?'

Jan. 6 Events and Biden's Impeachment

Discussing the events of Jan. 6, Trump linked his call for "retribution" to what he perceives as unequal treatment of the rioters compared to other demonstrators. He left open the option of pardoning the rioters who are currently incarcerated. On the topic of the recent moves to impeach President Joe Biden, Trump clarified that he has not played a part in initiating the impeachment inquiry.

"When I talk about retribution, I'm talking about fairness," he said. "We have to treat people fairly. These people on Jan. 6, they went — some of them never even went into the building, and they're being given sentences of, you know, many years."

Global Politics: Ukraine and Taiwan

Turning to global issues, Trump praised recent remarks from Russian President Vladimir Putin and expressed optimism about his potential role in negotiating an end to the conflict in Ukraine. He chose not to delve deep into the specifics of such a negotiation or his position on the China-Taiwan relations, emphasizing a strategy of maintaining flexible options.

On Abortion

Trump also conveyed his disagreement with fellow Republicans who are advocating for a total ban on abortion, without exceptions for rape or incest.

He stressed the necessity for a unified agreement on the gestational age limit for abortions, aiming to bridge the gap between opposing viewpoints on this divisive topic. 

Looking Ahead: Future Endeavors

Regarding his future in politics, Trump dismissed the idea of pursuing a third term, citing constitutional restrictions. He also indicated a willingness to force a government shutdown if necessary to secure a favorable deal, showcasing a steadfast approach to his demands.

The interview was conducted at Trump's residence in Bedminster, New Jersey.

Now Read: Former Prosecutor Says 'It's Going To Be Impossible' To Get Unbiased Jury In Trump's DC Case

This content was partially produced with the help of AI tools and was reviewed and published by Benzinga editors.

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