Des Moines, Iowa, In a town hall event broadcasted on live television from Iowa, former U.S. President Donald Trump reassured the public that he would not become a dictator if re-elected as President in 2024, except “on day one.” Responding to questions from both Democrats and some Republicans about concerns over the potential autocratic implications of his return to power, Trump explicitly denied any intentions to abuse presidential authority for revenge against political opponents.
Pressed twice to affirm that he would not transform into a dictator, Trump responded, “No. No. Other than day one.” He clarified that on the mentioned day, he would leverage presidential powers to close the southern border with Mexico and expand oil drilling.
Trump, who seeks a second term and is the leading contender for the Republican presidential nomination, has frequently vowed “retribution” against political adversaries if he regains the presidency. His targets include President Joe Biden, prosecutors who have filed numerous charges against him, the Department of Justice, and the federal bureaucracy. This declaration has been a recurring theme in his campaign speeches and TV appearances throughout the year.
Notably, the statement about his willingness to be a “dictator on day one” has sparked reactions from both sides of the political spectrum. Julie Chavez Rodriguez, Biden’s campaign manager, issued a statement immediately after the event, emphasizing that Americans should take Trump’s words seriously, as he had been transparent about his intentions if re-elected.
Trump’s presidency, spanning from 2017 to 2021, concluded with his refusal to concede defeat in the 2020 election, promoting unfounded claims of election fraud. These claims played a pivotal role in instigating the deadly Capitol insurrection on January 6, 2021.
While Trump skipped the televised debate with other Republican contenders, the event highlighted the deepening divisions within the party. Trump’s critics, including former U.S. Representative Liz Cheney, warned of the “very real threat” of a Trump dictatorship if he secures a second term.
