Meet the Press Jan. 18 — Sec. Scott Bessent, Sen. Rand Paul, Sen. Tim Kaine and Mayor Jacob Frey
12 snips
Jan 18, 2026 
Scott Bessent, former Treasury Secretary, dives into the geopolitical implications of President Trump’s tariff threats concerning Greenland, arguing that U.S. control is crucial to counter Russia and China. U.S. Senators Rand Paul and Tim Kaine offer bipartisan insights on limiting presidential military power, discussing their near victory regarding Venezuela and the constitutionality of emergency tariffs. Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey addresses a DOJ investigation into his actions amid rising tensions, arguing against federal escalation and urging for peaceful protest.
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Greenland Framed As Strategic Preemption
- Scott Bessent frames Greenland as vital to U.S. national security and argues the U.S. must control it to avoid future conflict.
- He portrays tariffs and acquisition talk as strategic preemption rather than immediate military action.
Tariffs Portrayed As Preventive Tools
- Bessent argues tariffs can be justified as preventing future emergencies and leveraging U.S. economic power.
- He asserts the Supreme Court is unlikely to overturn a president's signature economic policy on such measures.
Oversight Versus Fed Independence
- Bessent defends Treasury urging oversight of the Fed while insisting on central bank independence with sunlight.
- He claims market reaction shows the investigation didn't unmoor confidence in monetary policy.
