In an interview with The Atlantic, President Trump addressed topics including Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's performance amid Pentagon turmoil and his aggressive stance on immigration enforcement. Trump expressed confidence in Hegseth despite controversy over unauthorized disclosures and a costly makeup studio, suggesting he would get things in order. On immigration, Trump acknowledged imperfections in the system while defending the deportation of undocumented immigrants, noting that he is not directly involved in individual cases. During his second term, Trump has focused on expanding executive authority and prioritizing loyalists in his administration, asserting that he now runs both the country and the world. Despite initial hostility towards The Atlantic reporters, Trump engaged in the interview to discuss his governance and achievements, indicating a more enjoyable second term compared to the first.

President Trump expressed confidence in Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's ability to address recent turmoil at the Pentagon, despite reports of unauthorized disclosures and the installation of a costly makeup studio. Trump's remarks followed a positive discussion with Hegseth, and Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt affirmed the president's trust in Hegseth's leadership.

Amid concerns about potential wrongful deportations, Trump conceded that the immigration system is not perfect but maintained a firm stance on deporting undocumented individuals. He clarified that he is not directly involved in individual deportation cases, delegating such matters to his staff.

During his second term, Trump has focused on reimagining the US's global role, expanding executive authority, and reducing federal government size. He expressed regret over some personnel choices from his first term and prioritized installing loyalists in key positions this time around.

Public opinion on Trump's immigration policies has declined, with a CNN poll indicating a 45% approval rating, reflecting public discontent with recent deportation incidents involving US citizen children.

Despite initial criticism of The Atlantic and its reporters, Trump ultimately agreed to an interview to discuss his administration's efforts and his experience in office. The conversation revealed Trump’s perception of his second term as more enjoyable and fulfilling than the first, characterized by his assertion that he now manages both national and global affairs.