In a much-anticipated three-hour conversation on Friday night, Donald Trump discussed a variety of cultural and political topics with Joe Rogan, the host of a leading podcast. This lengthy interview caused Trump to arrive significantly late to a rally in Traverse City, Michigan, leading to frustration among waiting supporters.
This podcast appearance is part of Trump’s strategy to engage with nontraditional media platforms as the election approaches. Rogan recently invited Vice President Kamala Harris for a discussion, but her campaign declined the offer. Notably, Rogan’s podcast boasts over 17 million subscribers on YouTube.
Much of what Trump shared during the interview echoed his campaign messages. He reiterated his belief that the ongoing war in Ukraine would not have occurred under his administration, criticized the debate moderators for not adequately fact-checking Harris, and targeted the media and Democratic Party, portraying them as more dangerous than any foreign adversary. Trump also revisited conspiracy theories about the 2020 election being rigged.
When Rogan pressed Trump for specifics on his claims about the 2020 election fraud, Trump provided a somewhat unfocused explanation, suggesting that election law changes during the pandemic lacked proper congressional approval. “They should have gotten approval from the Legislature to do what they did; they didn’t get that,” he argued.
Currently campaigning for his second term, Trump indicated that this upcoming election would be his last if he wins, but he refrained from discussing potential future runs if he were to lose. “If I win, this will be my last election,” he stated, emphasizing the importance of having fair elections.
Despite previously acknowledging a narrow loss to Joe Biden, Trump continues to assert fraud against the electoral process, with his campaign rhetoric becoming rather aggressive in recent weeks. His statements included threats toward political adversaries and calls to revoke the licenses of opposing media channels, leading many critics to label him as having authoritarian tendencies.
In his defense, Trump claimed, “I was actually the exact opposite of a dictator. I was a very straight guy.”
The discussion also veered into unconventional territory, with Trump mentioning his interest in UFOs, stating there’s “no reason not to think there’s no life on Mars or all these planets.” Rogan interjected to clarify that life has not been found on Mars despite numerous probes.
Rogan also attempted to draw out Trump’s views on Confederate General Robert E. Lee, with Trump noting that military leaders often regard Lee as a “genius,” though he did not elaborate on this point.
This interview occurred on Rogan’s show, “The Joe Rogan Experience,” a well-known platform among audiences, particularly young males. The podcast showcases an array of guests from various sectors, including entertainment and politics.
While Rogan has engaged in political discussions, he has not publicly supported any candidate this election cycle, although he previously expressed admiration for Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who later dropped out and endorsed Trump.
Rogan had also been in talks with Harris for a podcast appearance, but scheduling conflicts prevented it from materializing. Harris’s campaign spokesperson highlighted that discussions had taken place, but ultimately, her schedule was prohibitive.
During the conversation, Trump acknowledged the significance of appearing on Rogan’s podcast, even humorously calling himself “your student.” He continued his trend of criticizing environmental policies, particularly those related to wind energy, which he argued adversely affects wildlife, claiming, “I want to be a whale psychiatrist.”
Trump also ramped up his critique of Harris, labeling her “unwise” and a larger threat than external adversaries. “I can’t believe something like that could happen if she became president of the United States,” he expressed. His rhetoric has intensified, with recent comments suggesting her policies could result in significant harm.
In an unusual twist, Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, urged Harris to soften her remarks, suggesting Trump’s latest campaign rhetoric could incite violence against him.
As the interview wound down, Trump acknowledged that he needed to leave for his rally, humorously attributing his lateness to the extensive conversation with Rogan. “So, if I’m not feeling well tonight at all, I’m going to blame you,” he joked.
