Trump initially focused his remarks on the ballroom construction project before responding to questions from journalists about the party’s poor electoral performance.
Asked about Vice President JD Vance’s suggestion that the ongoing war with Iran contributed significantly to the Republicans’ losses, Trump acknowledged that the assessment was largely accurate, pointing particularly to the impact of the conflict on rising fuel prices.
“It’s largely true,” Trump said when questioned about the war’s influence on the election outcome.
The President also addressed speculation about the future of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, dismissing suggestions that he was considering removing him from the position.
“He’s done a very good job,” Trump said in defence of Hegseth.
On the possibility of working with Democrats following the Republican losses, Trump said he was open to bipartisan cooperation, provided opposition lawmakers did not engage in what he described as destructive actions.
He also reminded reporters that he retained presidential veto powers, which could be used to block legislation he disagrees with.
