Rep. André Carson (D., Ind.) said Tuesday that President Donald Trump's speech to the United Nations showcased his qualities as an entertainer and a firm leader.
Speaking with CNN’s Wolf Blitzer, Carson discussed how Trump’s speech projected U.S. strength, as well as the president's own personality. Trump fiercely denounced North Korean dictator Kim Jong-Un and his nuclear program in the speech, prompting Blitzer to bring it up with Carson, who serves on the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence.
"What do you think of his words, when he said if necessary the U.S. ‘will have no choice but to totally destroy North Korea’?" Blitzer asked. "And he also referred to Kim Jong Un once again as ‘Rocket Man.’"
"Well, President Trump is being who he is," Carson said. "He's provocative. He's entertaining. And some people would say he's resolute."
Carson said the president’s position may offend some, but credited his firmness.
"I think that his language would be offensive to others because it might not set the right tone in terms of establishing diplomatic relationships," Carson said. "I do, however, believe — to President Trump's credit — that you have to be firm, particularly with our enemies, particularly those who have threatened to do us harm."
"You have to be very firm," he said. "I don’t think it's a chance to dance around the issues."
The Indiana congressman did say that Trump should be careful to maintain good relations with allied countries.
"We have to be firm with our open enemies," he said. "Having said that, in our firmness, we should not ostracize our allies who are trying to keep the peace."