President-elect Donald Trump held his first news conference since winning the election on Monday (December 16) at Mar-a-Lago. During the conference, he addressed various issues, including the polio vaccine, the war in Ukraine, and his relationship with tech CEOs.
Trump assured the public that his administration would not revoke the authorization of the polio vaccine, despite concerns about his Health and Human Services pick, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has expressed skepticism about vaccines.
Trump stated, "You're not going to lose the polio vaccine. It's not going to happen."
In foreign policy, Trump expressed his intention to press Ukraine and Russia to end their ongoing conflict. He described the war as "horrible" and emphasized the need for both nations to be prepared to negotiate a deal.
Trump also discussed domestic issues, including the potential pardon of New York City Mayor Eric Adams, who faces federal corruption charges. Trump suggested Adams was "treated pretty unfairly" and compared the charges to receiving an airfare upgrade.
On the topic of technology, Trump highlighted his meetings with tech leaders like Tim Cook and Sundar Pichai, noting improved relations with CEOs who were once adversaries. He also indicated a willingness to review the potential ban on TikTok, which faces a deadline to cut ties with its China-based parent company.
The conference marked Trump's most extensive public appearance since his election victory, contrasting with President Joe Biden's limited public engagements. Trump also hinted at future cabinet appointments, including naming Elon Musk to lead a new Department of Government Efficiency.