Trump says mass deportation policy was 'too tough'
In a post-midterm reveal, Donald Trump acknowledges that his hardline immigration policy was too aggressive and signals openness to a negotiated deal with Democrats on a legal-status framework for certain undocumented workers. The interview, conducted after a disappointing election showing, suggests a potential pivot toward find common ground on immigration while maintaining a硬line stance for others. Trump notes the balance between border closures and the fate of many long-term workers as a political challenge, implying that a middle path could be feasible. The remarks come as his administration continues to assess how immigration policy interacts with broader political support and policy goals, including a recent war escalation in Iran. Momentum remains uncertain as party dynamics and public sentiment shape next steps.
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Trump told Ross Douthat in a 60 Minutes interview that his immigration policy was 'too tough' and that while he received praise for border closure and removal of problematic entrants, it also harmed efforts to integrate some long-term workers who entered illegally. He framed the issue as a partisan divide: some constituents want broad removals, while others support allowing certain workers to stay if they contribute or pay taxes.
He indicated a possible deal with Democrats to grant legal status to certain groups, such as longtime workers in landscaping or hotel sectors, and suggested a framework where those who have resided in the country for years could stay under a negotiated settlement.
The remarks follow Trump’s campaign on a platform of mass deportations and no new wars, and come after a midterm defeat that he described as affecting the political balance and his ability to push immigration without concessions.
Trump pointed to internal party dynamics, noting the presence of hardliners who favor broad removals alongside more moderate voices who would support a deal, and he named the administration’s promotion of hardliner Stephen Miller as a factor in ongoing policy debates.
The interview underscores a potential strategic shift: maintaining a tough stance on illegal immigration while exploring a legal pathway for certain workers, with the broader context including recent foreign policy moves such as a war in Iran.