In an unusual move, President Donald Trump sat down with Fox News's Bret Baier for an interview before the Super Bowl, a tradition among sitting presidents with the network hosting the event. This year's Super Bowl marks the finale of the NFL season since 1966, and Trump became the first sitting president to attend the game. The interview took place amidst a backdrop of political drama and unexpected declarations, with Trump making bold claims about Pentagon fraud and expressing a controversial wish for Canada to join the United States as its 51st state.
During the interview, Trump asserted that he expects Elon Musk to uncover "billions" of dollars of abuse and fraud within the Pentagon, as well as "hundreds of millions of dollars of fraud and abuse" in the military. These statements were made without any supporting evidence. Trump suggested that Musk's "department of government efficiency" should also investigate the Department of Education.
"You take a look at the USAid, the kind of fraud in there … We’re talking about hundreds of millions of dollars of money that’s going to places where it shouldn’t be going … It’s crazy. It’s a big scam." – Donald Trump
The interview gained additional attention due to Baier's perceived neutrality compared to other Fox News personalities, who are often seen as more fervently supportive of Trump. This factor contributed to the unusual nature of the exchange. Despite Trump's history of granting interviews to networks hosting the Super Bowl, both he and Joe Biden declined some requests during their first terms.
Trump's comments extended beyond issues of fraud and government efficiency. He reiterated his wish for Canada to become part of the United States, stating lightheartedly:
"Now, if they’re a 51st state, I don’t mind doing it.” – Donald Trump
In another development, a judge temporarily blocked efforts by Trump and Musk to place thousands of workers from the US Agency for International Development (USAid) on leave, further complicating the political landscape surrounding Trump's claims.
Meanwhile, President Joe Biden opted out of a Super Bowl interview in 2024, citing a desire to give voters a respite from political news. This decision marked a departure from tradition but underscored the evolving nature of presidential engagement with media during major events.