Former President Trump recently suggested the possibility of political violence surrounding the 2024 election, contingent on the perceived fairness of the electoral process. In an interview with TIME, Trump expressed that the outcome of the election could influence the likelihood of such unrest, stating, 'If we don’t win, you know, it depends.'
During the interview, Trump outlined his ambitious second-term agenda and reflected on the lessons learned from his initial tenure in office. The discussion also touched on the potential for violence in the pursuit of his re-election, with Trump acknowledging the possibility based on the election's fairness.
TIME characterized Trump's vision as 'transformative' and cited former White House strategist Stephen Bannon's description of Trump's view as 'apocalyptic' regarding the country's current state. The publication highlighted concerns that Trump's obsessions could escalate tensions within the nation.
The shadow of the Capitol Riot on January 6, 2021, loomed over the conversation, with Trump facing federal charges related to efforts to overturn the 2020 election results and the subsequent riot. Despite being impeached for inciting an insurrection, Trump was acquitted by the U.S. Senate.
Trump's 2024 campaign representatives did not immediately respond to requests for comment on the matter.
Aside from the discussion on potential violence, Trump made other notable claims during the interview, including plans to utilize the military to address illegal immigration issues in the U.S. He also mentioned a commitment to assisting in the release of a Wall Street Journal reporter imprisoned in Russia on espionage charges.
In response to Trump's remarks, the Biden administration welcomed the support for the journalist's release, emphasizing the importance of press freedom and the ongoing efforts to secure the journalist's return.
