Full Interview: Sen. Thom Tillis on Trump's D.C. takeover, Ukraine and the race to replace him
Thom Tillis’ Interview: A Message for the 2024 U.S. Senate RaceIn a heartfelt interview aired live across the country, Senior VP Thom Tillis shared insights about his decision to step down as Republican Senate president following the Trump administration’s takeover of the nation's capital. His remarks were deeply personal and contained a message that will resonate with voters in North Carolina next year.
Introduction:
Thom Tillis, an iconic figure in U.S. politics, was once known for his dedication to the 2016 election campaign. In 2016, he won both the Senate race and the U.S. House of Representatives for Texas. After his exit from the Senate in 2017, he left for a move in New York, where he had spent most of his career since 1983. He mentioned that his focus after Trump took control of the D.C. administration was to stay away from the president’s home.
Why He Left:
The decision to leave his Senate seat came at a critical time for the U.S., as Trump led the administration over the capital during the 2017 midterm elections. In a series of tweets, Tillis expressed his frustration with the administration and its leaders, particularly President Trump’s policies on immigration, healthcare, and border security.
“Where am I going? It’s not about where you’re from. It’s about where the people are,” he wrote in 2017.
The D.C. Takeover and Its Impact:
After the D.C. administration was established by Trump, it rapidly expanded into cities across the country, including New York. The focus on infrastructure projects, such as the U.S.-Canada border wall, had significant economic and social consequences in the region. The transition from Trump to Trump Jr. led to a surge in jobs but also created concerns about the president’s handling of immigration policies.
Ukraine:
Thom Tillis was deeply involved with Trump’s contract for Ukraine since 2017. The bid to replace U.S. President-elect Donald Trump on the Ukraine scene was intense, and both sides were focused on the impact of the conflict. For Trump, it represented a chance to stabilize the region while dealing with Russia’s interference in Ukraine.
His Perspective:
In his interview, Tillis emphasized the importance of dealing with the conflict in Ukraine. “I know it's been tough for everyone involved,” he said. “It’s hard for all of us on both sides of the issue.”
The North Carolina Senate Race:
Back to North Carolina, Tillis will be competing against other potential candidates as his signature vice presidential candidate. This race is expected to reflect his career trajectory, which has been shaped by issues ranging from immigration reform to healthcare access.
Challenges Ahead:
- Immigration: He faces a delicate balance between advocating for policies that benefit the country while addressing concerns about underrepresentation of marginalized communities.
- Healthcare: Ensuring access to quality healthcare is crucial as he prepares to lead the race.
- Immigrant Reform: Addressing the systemic issues affecting immigrants and providing pathways to integration will be key.
Legacy:
Tillis’ actions reflect his political integrity and belief in standing up for those in need. His remarks in North Carolina aim to set a precedent for how he wants the nation seen by future U.S. leaders.
In summary, Thom Tillis’ interview is not just about an individual’s political stance; it’s about his message for the future of the 2024 U.S. Senate race. His words will shape the candidates facing the race and set expectations for how he plans to lead in the nation’s halls of power.
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