This week marks a pivotal moment for President Trump on the global stage, as he navigates significant diplomatic engagements including the United Nations General Assembly and a key meeting with China’s President Xi Jinping at the White House.
Transcript
ELISSA NADWORNY, HOST:
President Trump faces a crucial week in international diplomacy, with a speech at the U.N. General Assembly and a visit from Chinese leader Xi Jinping. The discussions between the two leaders will cover topics such as Iran, trade, and artificial intelligence, an area where Trump is currently walking a political tightrope. This unfolds as he encounters challenges within his usual support base, highlighted by a campaign ad from Florida Republican Representative Maria Elvira Salazar, openly criticizing his policies.
(SOUNDBITE OF CAMPAIGN AD)
MARIA ELVIRA SALAZAR: Mr. President, your immigration policies have gone too far.
NADWORNY: So how will the president navigate these rough political waters? Here to discuss this is NPR senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson.
MARA LIASSON, BYLINE: Hi there.
NADWORNY: What should we expect from Trump’s participation in the United Nations General Assembly and his meeting with Xi Jinping?
LIASSON: Trump is known for appreciating the grandeur of state visits, and it is anticipated that he will extend a warm welcome to Xi. However, significant agreements have often been elusive in his administration, and observers will be keen to see how assertively Trump addresses key issues like Iran. Although he has threatened sanctions against China for purchasing Iranian oil, he has yet to act on these threats. Similarly, he has previously stepped back from imposing tariffs when faced with China’s counter-threats involving rare Earth minerals. While artificial intelligence is on the agenda, expectations for a concrete agreement remain low.
NADWORNY: Trump’s stance on AI has been somewhat inconsistent. Initially dismissing concerns as exaggerated, he recently announced the creation of an “AI force” to address these issues. Could this indicate a shift toward more regulation?
LIASSON: The specifics are unclear, but Trump’s recent comments suggest a change. Previously, he labeled concerns about AI as a hoax, a position at odds with public sentiment. A Gallup poll indicates that half of Americans strongly oppose data centers, and there is widespread concern about AI’s impact on jobs and humanity’s future. The proposed AI force might suggest an acknowledgment of these public concerns.
NADWORNY: There’s also been internal dissent within Trump’s party. What are the highlights?
LIASSON: Indeed, we’ve seen minor revolts among Republicans. Seven House Republicans joined Democrats in opposing the Iran War, including two representatives from Iowa. These farm states have been economically impacted by the war, affecting prices for fertilizer and diesel. On immigration, Trump’s once-strong position is weakening. Maria Elvira Salazar’s ad criticized his immigration policies, claiming they alienate Hispanic voters who previously supported him. Trump captured 46% of the Hispanic vote in 2024, up from 28% in 2016, but this support appears to be declining.
NADWORNY: Rather than addressing these issues, it seems Trump is focused elsewhere.
LIASSON: Yes, over the weekend, he discussed his triumphal arch project, mentioning that it would feature snipers and drones. It’s unclear whether this will bolster support or alarm residents in Washington, D.C., and Virginia who pass by it daily.
NADWORNY: That is NPR senior national political correspondent Mara Liasson. Thank you so much for your thoughts.
LIASSON: You’re welcome.
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