2025-04-04T10:04:20.000Z

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In a surprising turn of events, a vintage 1987 interview featuring Donald Trump on CNN's iconic talk show, Larry King Live, has resurfaced on social media platforms, reigniting discussions about the former president's longstanding views on trade and diplomacy. The timing of this video’s re-emergence coincides with Trump’s announcement of significant new tariffs on international trade, dubbed his "Liberation Day" levies.

During the interview, a young Trump, then a 41-year-old real estate mogul, expressed significant concerns about America's declining stature on the global stage and criticized the trade policies that he believed were detrimental to the United States. "I was tired, and I think a lot of other people are tired of watching other countries ripping off the United States. This is a great country. They laugh at us. Behind our backs, they laugh at us because of our own stupidity," Trump remarked, capturing his frustration about what he perceived as America's exploitation by foreign nations.

His comments during this candid conversation with Larry King unveiled early hints of the confrontational diplomatic approach that would later define his presidency. Trump pointed out a glaring disparity in the financial commitments of other countries, particularly mentioning Japan. "Our leaders — what we have, we have a Persian Gulf situation today.... Billions and billions of dollars are being spent for getting oil for Japan, and they are paying nothing for it, essentially they're paying nothing for it," he stated, highlighting the imbalance he perceived in international trade.

Moreover, he openly questioned the state of free trade in the country, stating, "I believe it's very important that you have free trade, but we don't have free trade right now." This sentiment reflects the same frustrations he articulated during his presidency, particularly when advocating for protectionist policies.

Fast forward to the present, as Trump has recently announced sweeping tariffs, including a 10% tariff on most countries, higher rates for key trading partners, a 20% tariff on the 27-nation European Union, a 25% levy on South Korea, and a 24% tariff on Japan. The baseline 10% tariff rate is substantially higher than the historical average for the United States and is set to take effect at 12:01 AM Saturday. Specific reciprocal duties are anticipated to be implemented after midnight on April 9.

Interestingly, during the 1987 interview, Trump firmly stated, "I have no intention of running for president," dismissing any political ambitions with confidence. Yet, decades later, the same individual—now the 47th president of the United States—finds himself at the center of a political tempest, showcasing how unpredictable history can be. When asked about his political aspirations, Trump responded, "Well, they can presume whatever they want. I have no intention of running for president." His earlier remarks starkly contrast with his current political stance, as he has recently hinted at a potential bid for a third term, even though the U.S. Constitution's 22nd Amendment limits presidents to two elective terms.

During an NBC News telephone interview, Trump was quoted saying, "There are methods which you could do it," further emphasizing, "I'm not joking." This statement underscores the evolving political landscape in the U.S. and raises questions about the potential implications of his candidacy and strategies moving forward. The 1987 interview serves as a fascinating historical snapshot of Trump's perspectives, which have both evolved and remained consistent over the decades, offering insight into the complex figure that he has become in American political life.