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LIVE: White House holds press briefing | NBC News

LIVE: White House holds press briefing | NBC News

NBC News

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Video Summary

The president is heading to New York City for the UN General Assembly, where he will deliver a speech on American strength and accomplishments, including ending seven global conflicts. He will also meet with various world leaders. In other news, positive economic data shows a rebound in consumer confidence, with declining mortgage rates making homeownership more affordable. Gas prices have fallen, and vehicle operating costs are down, leading Americans to spend the least on gasoline since 2005. Real wages have increased, particularly for blue-collar workers, and the stock market is experiencing record highs, with the S&P 500 up nearly 15% and the NASDAQ up over 21% since election day.

The administration is taking strong action against political violence, designating Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization and investigating its funding sources. This comes in response to incidents like the assassination of Charlie Kirk, an act condemned by many but met with resistance from some Democrats. The president emphasizes the importance of free speech and encourages Americans not to live in fear, vowing to restore order and address the root causes of domestic terrorism.

Discussions also touched on the TikTok deal, which will ensure American ownership and data security, and the ongoing concerns of farmers regarding crop prices and trade with China. The administration reiterated its commitment to investigating alleged abuses of power by political opponents and expressed solidarity with supporters facing legal challenges.

Short Highlights

  • The president is attending the UN General Assembly to discuss American strength and global order.
  • Economic indicators are positive, showing increased consumer confidence, lower mortgage and gas prices, and rising wages.
  • Antifa is being designated a domestic terrorist organization to combat rising political violence.
  • A deal for TikTok will ensure American ownership and secure US user data.
  • The administration is committed to holding accountable those who have allegedly weaponized the Department of Justice and abused their power.

Key Details

Presidential Schedule and UN General Assembly [3:55]

  • The president is traveling to New York City for the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
  • He will deliver a major speech focusing on the renewal of American strength globally and his accomplishments, including ending seven wars.
  • Bilateral meetings are scheduled with the UN Secretary General, and leaders of Ukraine, Argentina, and the European Union.
  • A multilateral meeting will include Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt, UAE, and Jordan.
  • The president will attend a reception with over 100 world leaders before returning to Washington D.C.
  • On Thursday, a bilateral meeting with the President of Turkey is planned.
  • On Friday, the president will attend the Ryder Cup golf match on Long Island.
  • An executive order was signed last week to prevent a strike that would have disrupted the Ryder Cup.
  • Bryson Dashambo praised the president's intervention to protect the competition.

This section outlines the president's upcoming international and domestic engagements, highlighting diplomatic efforts and support for significant events.

"When the possibility of a strike threatened to disrupt transportation and attendance, President Trump stepped up and took the action needed to protect this worldclass competition."

Economic Recovery and Affordability [6:16]

  • Positive economic data indicates a resurgence in American faith in the economy and the nation's direction.
  • Mortgage rates have dropped to a three-year low, resulting in a $250 monthly decrease for new homebuyers, or nearly $3,000 annually.
  • The president aims to continue driving mortgage rates to record lows.
  • Energy dominance has led to lower gas prices, with Americans spending the smallest portion of their income on gasoline since 2005.
  • The annual cost to own and operate a new vehicle has decreased by nearly 6% in the past year.
  • Americans are earning and spending more than ever before.
  • Real wages have increased nearly every month since the president took office, with blue-collar wages rising at the fastest rate in six decades.
  • Retail sales are up 5% over last year.
  • The stock market is booming, with the Dow, S&P 500, and NASDAQ reaching new record highs.
  • The S&P 500 is up nearly 15%, and the NASDAQ is up more than 21% since election day.
  • Nearly $9 trillion in U.S. investment has been secured to restore America as a manufacturing superpower, significantly more than previously attracted.
  • Industrial production has risen to an all-time high.
  • The administration believes the greatest economy in history was built in the first term and is being rebuilt again.

This section details a strong economic outlook, emphasizing affordability and growth across various sectors.

"President Trump built the greatest economy in the history of the world in his first term, and we are witnessing him do it all over again."

Response to Political Assassination and Violence [8:19]

  • The assassination of Charlie Kirk is described as an attack on the United States, which has failed.
  • The public response has been heartwarming, with millions praying, hosting vigils, attending services, and becoming politically engaged.
  • The assassin could destroy "flesh and blood" but not the values Charlie Kirk stood for.
  • A memorial service attended by the president and 100,000 people was held at State Farm Stadium.
  • Erica Kirk's "mercy" is highlighted as a significant act of grace.
  • A jarring exception to unity was noted: 58 House Democrats voted no and 38 voted present on a resolution condemning political violence and the assassination.
  • This vote is seen as a clear reflection of how "radical" the Democrat party has become, with many members captured by a "radical fringe of the far-left base."
  • The administration believes it is necessary to call out this "wickedness" for the nation to heal.
  • Past leaders are accused of offering platitudes while political violence has been allowed to "fester."
  • Coordinated campaigns by radical left-wing organizations are cited for dehumanizing, intimidating, doxing, and attacking Americans.
  • Examples of attempted political violence include an attempted assassination of Justice Brett Kavanaugh, attempted assassinations of the president in Pennsylvania and Florida, an attack on a CEO in New York City, and a 1,000% increase in assaults on ICE agents.
  • Violent radical left-wing mobs engaged in illegal behavior, targeted Jewish Americans, shut down college campuses, and burned down Tesla dealerships.
  • A left-wing activist murdered two Israeli embassy staffers outside the DC Jewish Museum.
  • The president has promised strong action to address the "dark sources funding and supporting this domestic terrorism."
  • Americans deserve to live without fear for their lives for stating their beliefs.

This section focuses on the aftermath of a political assassination, the condemnation of political violence, and the administration's plans to address its root causes.

"This assassination was an attack on everything that makes the United States of America the greatest country on earth. But that attack has completely failed."

Designation of Antifa as a Terrorist Organization [13:53]

  • Antifa will be designated a domestic terrorist organization, with an executive order to be signed soon.
  • This action is a response to the rise in violence perpetuated by Antifa and radical individuals.
  • The previous administration ignored this issue, but the current administration will not.
  • Bullet casings from the assassination of Charlie Kirk were inscribed with "Antifa mods."
  • Numerous examples of violence attributed to Antifa are provided, including ambushing ICE officers, assaulting police officers, detonating an explosive device, firebombing pro-life facilities, bringing a pipe bomb to a pro-Trump event, and threatening police officers and Trump supporters.
  • The administration considers this a serious threat to American safety and national security.
  • The administration will also investigate who is funding Antifa and other violent left-wing groups.

This part of the transcript details the administration's plan to designate Antifa as a terrorist organization and highlights past incidents linked to the group.

"Antifa is going to be designated a domestic terrorist organization. The president intends to sign that executive order very soon."

Free Speech and Encouragement [16:41]

  • The president's message is to "keep fighting" and "keep speaking up" and to "keep speaking our mind."
  • This aligns with what Charlie Kirk would have wanted.
  • Americans have a right to free speech, which the president supports and is protected by the Constitution.
  • Americans should not "cower in fear" but "rise up in courage to continue speaking the truth."

This segment emphasizes the importance of free speech and encourages citizens to express their views courageously.

"We have to keep fighting. We have to keep speaking up. We have to keep speaking our mind."

Personal Tributes and Memories [17:08]

  • Charlie Kirk is remembered as a great guy and an influential figure in the conservative and MAGA movements.
  • He was very helpful to the president during the campaign.
  • Many remember him from his podcast and show, and his willingness to send words of encouragement.
  • A final text exchange involved him asking for an address to send a children's book to a son.
  • This reflects his character and the impact he had on those who knew him.

This section offers personal reflections and warm memories of Charlie Kirk, highlighting his character and influence.

"Um, and I think that just speaks to um the type of person that he was and I know um so many of us here at the White House are going to miss him very much."

Health Announcement and Scientific Research [17:55]

  • A question arises about the timing of an announcement regarding autism, specifically its potential link to "Menopen" and new data.
  • The administration is viewing health matters through a different lens, paying attention to "gold standard science and research."
  • Americans are expected to be "enlightened and proud" of the announcement.
  • There are reams of scientific research suggesting no clear link between autism and acetaminophen usage.
  • The administration aims to address the confusion among women, particularly pregnant women, about health decisions.
  • The goal is to find answers to the "childhood epidemic" and "chronic epidemic" of autism plaguing America's youth.
  • Skepticism towards pre-announced reports is advised, encouraging critical thinking and open ears for the official announcement.

This segment discusses an upcoming health announcement, emphasizing a new approach to scientific research and addressing public confusion on health issues.

"So, I think Americans are going to be enlightened and proud of what they hear later this afternoon."

Department of Justice Accountability and Criticism of Biden Administration [18:47]

  • The president's social media post expressing frustration with the DOJ's perceived lack of timely action is addressed.
  • The president is fulfilling his promise to restore a Department of Justice that demands accountability.
  • This is not about weaponizing the DOJ but demanding accountability from those who allegedly weaponized it.
  • The Biden administration and his Attorney General are accused of weaponizing the DOJ to go after political opponents, especially in an election year.
  • Individuals like Adam Schiff, James Comey, and Leticia James are mentioned as targets of the president's frustration for alleged abuses of power.
  • The president's frustration is reaffirmed by millions who reelected him with a mandate to demand accountability.
  • The president has previously stated a demand for "full and complete accountability for wrongs and abuses that have occurred" to "root the corruption out of our system."

This section clarifies the administration's stance on the Department of Justice, emphasizing accountability for alleged past abuses of power by the previous administration.

"I demand a full and complete accountability for wrongs and abuses that have occurred. The American people gave a mandate to investigate and root the corruption out of our system, and that's what the president wants to see done."

Tom Homan Investigation and Support [22:11]

  • Allegations of Mr. Homan taking $50,000 are refuted; he never received the money.
  • The investigation into Mr. Homan is described as a "weaponization of the Biden Department of Justice against one of President Trump's strongest and most vocal supporters."
  • FBI agents allegedly went undercover to entrap Mr. Homan, a supporter who was later taking a government position.
  • Mr. Homan is stated to have done "absolutely nothing wrong."
  • Investigations by the president's Department of Justice and the FBI found "zero evidence of illegal activity or criminal wrongdoing."
  • The president fully supports Tom Homan, considering him a "brave public servant" who has done a "phenomenal job."

This segment defends Tom Homan against allegations, framing the investigation as politically motivated and asserting his innocence.

"Mr. Hman did absolutely nothing wrong."

Transgender Violence and Violence Investigations [24:07]

  • The president's comment about looking into "transgender violence" is discussed.
  • This is framed as something "worth looking into," and denying it is considered "willfully ignorant."
  • The administration is taking this seriously and focusing on all causes of violence and why individuals might be driven to "evil and such hatred."
  • Individual investigations are led by the FBI and the Department of Justice.
  • The White House and the president's policy team are leading the charge on overall violence and domestic terrorism, starting with designating Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization.
  • Additional actions are expected.

This part addresses the administration's approach to investigating various forms of violence, including those linked to transgender individuals, and emphasizes a broader strategy against domestic terrorism.

"It's definitely something worth looking into and I think anyone who denies that at this point is being willfully ignorant."

TikTok Deal Details and Economic Impact [26:11]

  • The president will sign the official TikTok deal later this week.
  • TikTok will be owned by a majority of American investors and controlled by a board with national security credentials.
  • Oracle will serve as TikTok's trusted security provider, monitoring US user data security.
  • American data will be stored securely in the United States, protected from foreign interference.
  • The algorithm will be retrained and operated in the US, outside of ByteDance's control.
  • The deal is expected to generate up to $178 billion in economic activity in the US over the next four years through businesses using TikTok.
  • This is good news for American youth using the app and for small business owners who rely on it.

This section provides details about the TikTok deal, emphasizing American control, data security, and the anticipated economic benefits.

"Americans data will be stored uh securely in the United States without access from China."

Farmers' Concerns and Trade with China [28:14]

  • The administration understands the anxiety of farmers regarding crop prices and the lack of an official trade deal with China.
  • This issue has been part of discussions with Chinese counterparts.
  • No specific actions are announced for farmers at this time, but the National Economic Council and the Secretary of Agriculture are engaged.

This part acknowledges the concerns of farmers regarding trade and prices but offers no immediate solutions.

Leticia James Investigation and Accountability [29:13]

  • Leticia James is accused of abusing her oath of office and engaging in "lawfare," campaigning on prosecuting Donald Trump before knowing if he committed a crime.
  • This is described as the words of a "corrupt politician who is abusing their power."
  • Her financial fraud investigation against President Trump and the Trump Organization was dismissed by an appeals court, with a $500 million civil fraud penalty overturned.
  • This is considered a "win" and an "exoneration" for the president.
  • Evidence of mortgage fraud by Leticia James is mentioned, with a report finding documented evidence of financial and property disclosures raising serious legal questions.
  • The president expresses frustration and desires accountability for those who allegedly abused their power.

This section elaborates on the perceived corruption and abuse of power by Leticia James, framing her actions as politically motivated "lawfare."

"What was Leticia James' campaign slogan? It was prosecute Donald Trump."

Foreign Policy: Russia, Palestine, and Venezuela [31:16]

  • The president is aware of the offer from President Putin for a one-year extension of the treaty eliminating nuclear weapons and will comment on it later.
  • The president disagrees with Western nations recognizing a Palestinian state, believing it does not help release hostages, end the conflict, or bring peace.
  • He views this recognition as a reward to Hamas.
  • The administration's position on Venezuela remains unchanged; the Maduro regime is considered illegitimate.
  • The president is willing to use all necessary means to stop the illegal trafficking of deadly drugs from Venezuela into the U.S.

This segment covers the administration's stance on international relations, including nuclear treaties, the recognition of a Palestinian state, and the situation in Venezuela.

"He believes it's a reward to Hamas."

Government Funding and Shutdown Concerns [36:28]

  • Discussions are ongoing with Republican and Democratic members of Capitol Hill regarding government funding.
  • The White House and Republicans advocate for a "clean funding extension" to keep the government open until November 21st.
  • This is the same budget approved by Democrats six months prior, adjusted for inflation.
  • The blame for a government shutdown would fall on the Democrats, hurting vulnerable populations like seniors, veterans, and military families.
  • Democratic leaders have previously advocated against shutdowns, citing potential chaos, pain, and heartache.

This part of the transcript focuses on the ongoing negotiations for government funding and the administration's preference for a clean extension.

"What this White House wants and what Republicans want, we want a clean funding extension to keep the government open."

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