Trump claimed it was rigged as Democratic candidates reportedly received many votes through mail-in ballots. During the interview, Trump asserted both the current primary elections in California and the 2020 presidential election were “rigged.”
Trump told Welker, “It’s happening again right now in California. This is happening right now. It’s four days.”
“That’s how they vote in California,” Welker replied as Trump pointed to the state’s unfinished ballot count as proof that something was off.
When pressed for evidence on the California voting, Trump said, “All I have to do is look, and I listen,” to which Welker responded, “that’s not evidence.”
Donald Trump lashes out on NBC reporter Kristen Welker and storms off
The situation quickly escalated as Trump grew frustrated and stormed off.
“They’re crooked. Just like you’re crooked,” Trump said.
Welker responded: “To be fair, I’m not crooked. But let’s continue.”
The president continued, “You’re either crooked or you’re stupid,” and after another exchange said, “Let’s call it quits because I’ve had enough. Thank you darling, have a good time.”
Kirsten Welker tried to continue the interview, but Trump interrupted: “I’ve sat in the rain with you for an hour, on and off in the rain, and I’ve given you enough time. You ought to straighten out your press, because you know what? A country can never be great with a dishonest press.”
The president then gestured to people behind the camera, stating, “Come on, let’s go”, before standing up and walking off the set.
Per the BBC, Kristen Welker, shortly after the interview was broadcast, said, “I spoke with President Trump on Saturday and we both acknowledged the complications during the interview posed by the rain. He agreed to sit down with me for another Meet the Press interview.”
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