U.S. President Donald Trump.
| Photo Credit: Reuters

U.S. President Joe Biden gestures before boarding Air Force One, in Los Angeles, California
| Photo Credit: Reuters

Joe Biden thinks he could have won reelection if he had stayed in the White House race, he said in an interview published Wednesday (January 8, 2025) — while conceding he was unsure if he would have served another full term.

The 82-year-old Democrat, who leaves office on January 20, was asked by USA Today if he believed victory over Republican Donald Trump was a realistic prospect last November, and he pointed to unspecified polling and said: “I think yes.”

“I really thought I had the best chance of beating him. But I also wasn’t looking to be president when I was 85 years old, 86 years old. And so I did talk about passing the baton,” Mr. Biden said.

“But I don’t know. Who the hell knows? So far, so good. But who knows what I’m going to be when I’m 86 years old?”

Mr. Biden, the oldest U.S. president in history, faced persistent questions about his mental fitness before withdrawing from the election after a calamitous televised debate against Mr. Trump in which he looked incapable of making the case for another term.

He has given fewer sit-down interviews and press conferences than any president since Ronald Reagan, and USA Today was the only print outlet scheduled for a one-to-one before Mr. Biden leaves office.

Regrets during his term

He was asked about regrets from the last four years but did not mention the presidential debate, or his decision to break his promise to be a single-term president and a “bridge” to next generation.

Instead, he complained about misinformation — pointing to falsehoods to spread by Mr. Trump and others about two New Year’s Day attacks in New Orleans and Las Vegas — and to the glacial pace of infrastructure projects.

“I think we would’ve been a hell of a lot better off had we been able to go much harder at getting some of these projects in the ground quicker,” he said.

Preemptive pardons

Washington has been abuzz with discussion since Mr. Trump’s victory over potential preemptive pardons for those who may be in the Republican leader’s crosshairs when he returns to office.

Mr. Biden confirmed that he was considering the idea but had not yet come to a decision.

He described how he told Mr. Trump during their Oval Office meeting shortly after the election not to go after perceived enemies, warning that it was “counterintuitive for his interest to go back and try to settle scores.”

Mr. Trump listened but did not offer a response, Mr. Biden said.

Legacy

For his legacy, the veteran Democrat said he wanted to be remembered for having a plan to restore the post-pandemic economy and reestablish American global leadership.

“That was my hope. I mean, you know, who knows?” Mr. Biden said. “And I hope (history) records that I did it with honesty and integrity, that I said what was on my mind.”

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump. File
| Photo Credit: Reuters

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump said on Saturday (December 21, 2024) that he will nominate billionaire Houston Rockets pro basketball team owner Tilman Fertitta to be his administration’s ambassador to Italy.

Also Read | Donald Trump Cabinet: From vaccine sceptic Robert F. Kennedy Jr to Elon Musk

Mr. Fertitta is the chairman and owner of Landry’s, which operates a large collection of restaurants, hotels and casinos throughout the United States.

In a post on his Truth Social platform, Mr. Trump lauded the 67-year-old Texas native as an “accomplished businessman” and philanthropist.

Washington:

Billionaire Elon Musk, tapped by US President-elect Donald Trump to slash federal government spending, lashed out at modern fighter jets on Monday, saying that drones were the future of air combat.

“Manned fighter jets are obsolete in the age of drones anyway. Will just get pilots killed,” said the head of SpaceX, Tesla and X, in a post on his social media platform.

Musk singled out the F-35 — a next-generation fighter jet manufactured by US-based Lockheed Martin that entered service in 2015 — for criticism.

“Meanwhile, some idiots are still building manned fighter jets like the F-35,” he posted, alongside a video of hundreds of drones hovering in formation in the sky.

The F-35, the world’s most advanced fighter, is stealth capable and can also be used to gather intelligence.

Germany, Poland, Finland and Romania have all recently signed deals for the aircraft.

Its development, however, has suffered from issues, notably in the design of its computer programs, and its very high operating costs are regularly criticized by its detractors.

“The F-35 design was broken at the requirements level, because it was required to be too many things to too many people,” said Musk on Monday, calling it “an expensive (and) complex jack of all trades, master of none.”

For Mauro Gilli, a researcher at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Zurich, “what makes the F-35… expensive is the software and the electronics, not the pilot per se.”

This is significant “because a reusable drone would need to get all that flashy electronics of an F-35,” he said on X.

He also pointed out that the existence of the F-35 had forced US rivals to develop their own aircraft and advanced radar to match it.

“By simply existing, the F-35 and the B-1 force Russia and China into strategic choices they would not have to make otherwise (i.e. budget allocations),” Gilli said, referring to B-1 heavy bomber aircraft.

“Even if Musk were right (and he is not), deleting the programs would relax these constraints on them.”

(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is published from a syndicated feed.)

ByteDance-owned TikTok Chief Executive Officer Shou Zi Chew has sought input on US matters from Elon Musk, a close adviser to President-elect Donald Trump, the Wall Street Journal reported on Saturday citing people familiar with the matter.

Chew initiated messages with the Tesla CEO in recent weeks and asked for his opinions on topics ranging from the incoming administration to potential tech policy, the report added.

Elon Musk, TikTok, ByteDance and the Trump administration did not immediately respond to Reuters’ requests for comments.

Both executives have not discussed specific measures to keep TikTok running in the United States, the Journal reported, adding that Chew has kept ByteDance’s senior leadership informed of the talks, with executives cautiously optimistic about finding a way forward.

ByteDance executives had been hedging their bets before the US election, meeting with people close to Trump and with people close to Democratic nominee Kamala Harris, the report added.

Trump, who unsuccessfully tried to ban TikTok in 2020, has said if elected in November he would not allow TikTok to be barred.

(This story has not been edited by NDTV staff and is auto-generated from a syndicated feed.)

Donald Trump’s presidential election victory has brought a cultural reset it seems. US Men’s National Team (USMNT) forward Christian Pulisic was seen celebrating his goal against Jamaica on Monday (Nov 18) by doing the ‘Trump Dance’ – a signature move popularised by the Republican leader during the election campaigning trail. Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) fighter Jon Jones performed a similar move last week after defeating Stipe Miocic by technical knockout, with President-elect Trump present ringside at the Madison Square Garden, alongside his coterie of soon-to-be-inaugurated cabinet leaders.

Netizens have been celebrating the dance move, claiming that it was a significant moment in US history, which had been dominated by identity politics and a rampant cancel culture.

“We have officially taken back the culture. Everyone is doing the Trump dance now,” said one user, while another added: “Trump started a movement with YMCA dance as people love just having fun, except liberals! Lol.”

TRUMP STARTED A MOVEMENT WITH YMCA DANCE AS PEOPLE LOVE JUST HAVING FUN, EXCEPT LIBERALS ! LOL pic.twitter.com/gPJbVCDW7O

— Fritz & Athena Harrod (@bignels2) November 14, 2024

The Trump Dance that’s sweeping the nation is like a refreshing shower after years wallowing in the mud of the woke mind virus. pic.twitter.com/aaQ2cdSmaE

— Eric Sammons (@EricRSammons) November 19, 2024

A third commented: “The Trump dance has gone mega viral as the cultural shift hits full effect. Sports stars in the US and around the world are doing it as a celebration, as is everyone else…even people in China.”

We have officially taken back the culture. Everyone is doing the Trump dance now pic.twitter.com/If4jLFwc1E

— James Jinnette (@james_jinnette1) November 17, 2024

The Trump Dance is everywhere.

Culture belongs to us now. pic.twitter.com/Vr8e4RQlN8

— Vince Dao (@VinceDaoTV) November 17, 2024

Instead of mocking the awkward dance, athletes appear to be dancing in support of Trump who not only won the popular vote but also helped the Republicans win the House and the Senate.

Also read | Do The Donald! Trump Dance Takes US Sport By Storm

What is the ‘Trump Dance’?

The trendy move stems from an awkward mishmash of steps performed by Trump during the election to the tune of YMCA song, produced by the American disco group, Village People.

The influence of Trump Dance has not been limited to the USA. England’s Charley Hull was recently seen performing the move during her final showdown with Nelly Korda at the Annika tournament held at Pelican Golf Club.

Washington:

Donald Trump’s presidential election victory has brought optimism to India-US relations, with key appointments and initiatives signalling a stronger partnership between the two nations. Marco Rubio, Mike Waltz, Vivek Ramaswamy and Kash Patel are expected to play pivotal roles in shaping this relationship.

Marco Rubio

India is breathing a sigh of relief following Donald Trump’s US election victory, thanks to his likely pick for Secretary of State, Marco Rubio. Rubio has consistently backed stronger US-India ties to counter China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region, and his pro-India and anti-Pakistan stance is music to India’s ears.

Rubio’s bill, introduced in July, aims to bolster the US-India partnership and counter China’s expanding influence. He believes increasing strategic relations with New Delhi is crucial, especially given India’s struggles against Communist China’s aggression. The bill proposes treating India on par with US allies like Japan, Israel, and South Korea regarding technology transfers, supporting India’s response to territorial threats.

During Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the US in 2023, Rubio released a statement saying, “…it is crucial that the Biden Administration, and the U.S. Congress, prioritise this incredibly important relationship. Our nations’ economic and security interests overlap on many of the most pressing issues, especially the growing hostility of the Chinese Communist Party in the Himalayas and in the Indian Ocean.”

This potential status would solidify India-US tech and military ties. Additionally, the bill seeks to bar Pakistan from receiving security assistance if found sponsoring terrorism against India. Rubio has historically been critical of Pakistan, urging former Secretary of State Rex Tillerson to designate it a “country of particular concern” for religious freedom violations in 2017.

Overall, Trump’s victory and Rubio’s nomination bring optimism for India-US relations, promising a stronger, more strategic partnership.

Mike Waltz

President Trump’s appointment of Mike Waltz as National Security Advisor is expected to strengthen US-India ties, particularly in defence. Waltz, a vocal China critic and co-chair of the Congressional India Caucus, has long advocated for deeper cooperation between the two nations to counter China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific. 

His leadership may lead to expanded military cooperation, joint exercises, and enhanced sharing of defence technologies, aligning US and Indian strategic interests.

As a China hawk, Waltz’s appointment is particularly promising for India, which has its own geopolitical concerns about China’s growing aggression. Waltz’s criticism of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau also aligns with India’s concerns. Overall, Waltz’s appointment is expected to enhance US-India cooperation in both security and economic spheres.

Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy

The Department of Government Efficiency, co-led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy, is set to revolutionise the US government’s inner workings by slashing bureaucracy and streamlining operations. While this initiative isn’t directly linked to foreign policy, it could have a ripple effect, making it easier for Indian businesses to operate in the US and vice versa, thus boosting US-India economic cooperation.

As Donald Trump begins his second term, strengthening US-India relations remains a top priority, with a sharp focus on countering China’s growing influence and expanding bilateral partnerships in key areas like defence, trade, and technology. The foundation for this cooperation was laid during Trump’s first term, with significant developments in strategic cooperation and shared geopolitical goals.

With the US Congress set to confirm the electoral results on January 6, 2025, and the presidential inauguration scheduled for January 20, 2025, India can expect a strengthened partnership with the United States under Trump’s second term.

Kash Patel

Apart from the cabinet, there is also Kashyap “Kash” Patel who majorly lost out on an important role – CIA chief. It has now been bagged by John Ratcliffe. 

However, Kash Patel being in the administration could have significant implications. He is an Indian-origin American attorney and as a loyalist to Trump, Patel’s appointment may strengthen ties between the two nations, particularly in counter-terrorism efforts.

His personal experience as an immigrant has shaped his views on immigration, leading him to back Donald Trump’s tough stance on the issue. Patel advocates for securing borders while still allowing lawful immigration, striking a balance between national security and economic needs. This nuanced approach reflects his background as the son of Indian immigrants and his own journey to becoming a key figure in Trump’s administration.

As Trump begins his second term, strengthening US-India relations remains a top priority, focusing on countering China’s influence and expanding bilateral partnerships in defence, trade, and technology. With key appointments and initiatives in place, India can expect a strengthened partnership with the United States.
 

Washington:

Donald Trump broke two significant traditions after losing the 2020 election – declining to invite President-elect Joe Biden to the White House and skipping Biden’s inauguration. 

However, these customs will be reinstated as Trump and Biden are set to meet at the Oval Office today, marking Trump’s first return to the White House since his presidency ended amidst election denialism four years ago.

Trump’s comeback was sealed after winning all seven swing states, securing 312 electoral votes to Vice President Kamala Harris’ 226, and potentially winning the popular vote. 

In a gesture of goodwill, President Biden congratulated Trump on November 6 and invited him to the White House, demonstrating his commitment to a peaceful transfer of power.

According to White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre, Biden’s invitation stems from his belief in upholding norms and ensuring a smooth transition. 

She said, “It is important not just because it’s important to him, but it’s important to the American people. The American people deserve this. They deserve a peaceful transfer of power. They deserve a smooth transition. And that’s what you’re going to see.”

The meeting’s agenda will be private, but reporters will be present to capture the beginning of the discussion. National security adviser Jake Sullivan revealed that Biden and Trump will discuss domestic and foreign policy issues.

The two leaders have been at odds for years, with vastly differing views on key policies such as climate change, Russia, and trade. Biden has expressed concerns about Trump’s impact on democracy, while Trump has criticised Biden’s competence

This meeting signifies a return to presidential tradition, particularly after Trump’s contentious departure from office. His impeachment by the House for “incitement of insurrection” following the January 6, 2021, US Capitol storming added to the tension. Today’s meeting marks a step towards reconciliation and reinforces the importance of democratic norms.
 

Reports have been flooding in of Black people across the United States receiving disturbing text messages referencing slavery and “picking cotton”, following Donald Trump’s presidential election win. These racist messages have been reported in over a dozen states, including California, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, Michigan, North Carolina, Virginia, and Alabama, as per CNN. The messages, sent anonymously, instructed recipients to report to a “plantation” or board a bus, sparking widespread alarm and prompting investigations by the FBI and other agencies.

The messages often instruct recipients to report to a specific address, sometimes mentioning the incoming presidential administration. Some even target children, with reports of middle school students receiving these hateful messages. For instance, a 16-year-old girl in California received a text directing her to report to a “plantation” in North Carolina.

A friend in San Francisco received this racist text today, and after looking on social media, it seems many Black people are receiving it too. pic.twitter.com/eDyFf3a6Ix

— John Ryan E (@RyanElward) November 7, 2024

The FBI is working with the Justice Department to address these incidents, while the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is investigating alongside federal and state law enforcement. TextNow, the platform through which some of these messages were sent, told CNN this is a “widespread, coordinated attack”. 

FBI Statement on Offensive and Racist Text Messageshttps://t.co/vpQYAO6LT7 pic.twitter.com/iDtN36WhX4

— FBI (@FBI) November 7, 2024

”TextNow is working alongside our industry partners to uncover more details and continue to monitor patterns to actively block any new accounts attempting to send these messages. We do not tolerate or condone the use of our service to send harassing or spam messages and will work with the authorities to prevent these individuals from doing so in the future,” the company said. 

Civil rights organisations, including NAACP, one of the largest Black civil rights organisations in the US, have condemned these messages. The Southern Poverty Law Center has also weighed in, calling the messages “deeply disturbing” 

”We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again – there is no place for hate in a democracy. The threat — and the mention of slavery in 2024 — is not only deeply disturbing, but perpetuates a legacy of evil that dates back to before the Jim Crow era, and now seeks to prevent Black Americans from enjoying the same freedom to pursue life, liberty, and happiness,” NAACP President and CEO Derrick Johnson said in a press release. 

Whoever is sending the racist text messages is using anonymizing software to obscure their location, Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill told CNN on Friday. 

Donald Trump won Arizona on November 10, returning the state and its 11 electoral votes to the Republican column after Joe Biden’s 2020 victory.
| Photo Credit: AP

Donald Trump won the state of Arizona in this week’s U.S. presidential election, US TV networks projected on November 10, completing the Republican’s sweep of all seven swing states.

After four days of counting in the southwestern state, which has a large Hispanic population, CNN and NBC projected Mr. Trump had obtained its 11 electoral votes.

The win over Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris marks Donald Trump’s second in Arizona since 2016.

He campaigned on border security and the economy, tying Ms. Harris to inflation and record illegal border crossings during Biden’s administration. Donald Trump’s victory dims the hopes of Arizona Democrats, who sought to continue their ascendance, which began with the 2018 flip of a longtime GOP-held Senate seat and continued in 2020 and 2022.

Biden was the second Democrat to win Arizona in 70 years.