Donald Trump walked out of an interview with NBC's Meet the Press after repeatedly making false claims that the 2020 US presidential election was rigged and questioning compensation for those charged in the January 6 insurrection. The abrupt exit occurred during a tense exchange with NBC's Kristen Welker in Wisconsin, which aired on Sunday.
False Claims About California Election
Trump falsely claimed that the California gubernatorial race was 'rigged' and asserted untrue allegations of cheating in the 2020 election. 'It's four days and they aren't even close to counting ballots,' Trump argued, though Welker noted that such delays are standard in California. Trump also claimed Republican candidates were underperforming, despite polls showing a tight race between Democrat Xavier Becerra and Republican Steve Hilton.
When Welker asked for evidence, Trump accused her of being 'crooked'. 'They're crooked, just like you're crooked, your press is crooked. And Meet the Press is crooked,' he said. Welker defended herself, prompting Trump to retort: 'You're either crooked or you're stupid. You play right into their hands with this crap.'
Unsubstantiated 2020 Election Claims
Trump repeated unverified assertions that he won the 2020 election. When Welker tried to ask further questions, Trump ended the interview, saying: 'Let's call it quits because I've had enough.' He removed his microphone and added, 'Thank you, darling. Have a good time.' Welker reminded him she traveled to Wisconsin for the interview, to which Trump replied: 'I've sat in the rain with you for an hour. You oughta straighten out your press.'
January 6 Fund Controversy
Earlier, Trump grew irritated when Welker asked if those who pleaded guilty to assaulting police during the January 6 riots would be eligible for his proposed 'anti-weaponization' fund. Without evidence, Trump claimed rioters were invited into the Capitol by FBI agents and took plea deals due to fear of long sentences. 'You know why they pleaded guilty? Because they were told they were going to jail for 15 years,' Trump said, refusing to answer directly.
NBC News did not respond to requests for comment.
