President Trump raised eyebrows during a Sunday interview when he floated immigration as a potential area of compromise with Democrats, who are poised to take control of Congress following midterm losses for Republicans. The remarks came just weeks before Democrats gain subpoena power and investigative authority over the administration.
When asked by 60 Minutes to name one issue for potential bipartisan cooperation, Trump immediately cited immigration reform. “If they’re good people working in a landscaping company or working in a hotel, or doing something, right?” he said. “And in some cases paying taxes. And there’s a large group of people [that] think they should be allowed to stay.”
Midterm Fallout Looms
The comments arrive as Trump faces a newly empowered Democratic majority in Congress, with analysts anticipating aggressive investigations into his administration and business dealings. Despite exit polls showing voters still favoring Republican approaches to immigration (43% to 41%), the president’s suggestion of potential leniency marks a notable shift in rhetoric.
Conservative critics quickly dismissed the idea of meaningful Democratic cooperation. “Democrats aren’t going to make a deal with Trump that doesn’t grant absolute amnesty,” the Federalist reported, characterizing the upcoming Congress as preparing to “bury” the president through investigations rather than policy collaboration.
Trump’s Calculated Moves
The interview revealed Trump’s awareness of his constrained position as a term-limited president facing opposition control of Congress. He separately mused about cementing his legacy through Washington, D.C. infrastructure projects bearing his name, remarking “Nobody will do it once I’m gone.”
With legislative achievements likely stalled, the administration appears focused on executive actions – particularly regarding immigration enforcement – and legacy-building projects. As one conservative outlet put it: “The way forward is to slap his name all over that God-forsaken place and continue deporting aliens.”
Political observers note the interview highlights Trump’s balancing act between maintaining his base’s support while acknowledging shifting political realities after the midterms. With Democrats preparing investigations and the media maintaining intense scrutiny, the president’s remaining leverage may rest almost entirely with his loyal supporters.
Source: thefederalist.com โ https://thefederalist.com/2026/11/11/democrats-and-the-media-will-always-hate-trump-he-shouldnt-forget-that/