Donald Trump abruptly ended an interview with NBC's Meet the Press after a heated exchange with host Kristen Welker over unsubstantiated claims of election fraud. The interview, recorded in Wisconsin on Friday and aired on Sunday, saw the US president repeatedly assert that the 2020 presidential election and the California gubernatorial race were 'rigged'.
When Welker pressed Trump for evidence, he accused her of being 'crooked' and said, 'You’re either crooked or you’re stupid. You play right into their hands with this crap.' Trump also claimed that NBC was aware the elections were rigged, despite no evidence supporting his allegations.
The interview deteriorated further when Welker asked whether those charged in the January 6 Capitol riot should receive compensation from Trump's proposed 'anti-weaponisation' fund. Trump claimed without proof that rioters were 'ushered into the building' by FBI agents and pleaded guilty due to fear of lengthy prison sentences.
After refusing to answer further questions, Trump removed his microphone and said, 'Let’s call it quits because I’ve had enough. Thank you, darling. Have a good time.' Welker noted she had travelled to Wisconsin for the interview, to which Trump replied that he had 'sat in the rain' for an hour and given her enough time.
NBC News declined to comment on the incident.
