Trump abruptly ends NBC interview after clash over 'rigged election' claim

June 7, 2026

President Donald Trump abruptly terminated an interview with NBC's "Meet The Press" after host Kristen Welker repeatedly challenged his unsubstantiated claims about election fraud in California's primary and the 2020 presidential race. The contentious 50-minute interview, conducted in a barn in Wisconsin amid technical issues and rain, covered topics including the Iran conflict and a controversial compensation fund before devolving into personal attacks. When Welker pressed Trump for evidence supporting his allegations of election rigging in California, he responded that he only needed to "look and listen," then called both Welker and the media "crooked" before walking off set.

Who is affected

President Donald Trump
NBC's Kristen Welker (Meet The Press presenter)
Traditional media outlets accused of bias
Voters and election officials in California
Individuals who would have been eligible for the now-dropped "anti-weaponisation" fund
Democrats and Republicans who criticized the compensation fund proposal
People prosecuted over the January 6, 2021 Capitol riot

What action is being taken

Votes are still being counted in California's primary elections to determine which candidates will appear on November's midterm ballot
Kristen Welker spoke with President Trump on Saturday following the interview broadcast

Why it matters

This incident illustrates the ongoing tension between President Trump and mainstream media outlets, highlighting his continued refusal to provide evidence for election fraud claims despite repeated challenges from journalists. The confrontation underscores Trump's persistent attacks on press credibility and democratic election processes, which have significant implications for public trust in both institutions. The interview's breakdown demonstrates the challenges journalists face when attempting to hold political leaders accountable for unsubstantiated statements.

What's next

Trump has agreed to sit down with Kristen Welker for another Meet the Press interview in the future.

Read full article from source: BBC