Trump defends Iran war after election loss, keeps Hegseth

President Donald Trump acknowledged that rising fuel prices from the Iran war contributed to his Republicans' defeat in the parliamentary elections, while defending his decision to wage the conflict. Trump said he largely agrees with Vice President J.D. Vance's assessment that the war caused the electoral loss, noting prices rose "a little" short-term. He insisted he would act the same way again to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons, arguing discontent targets prices, not the war itself. Trump dismissed firing Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, praising his performance despite CBS News reports of consultations. He showed no concern over potential impeachment proceedings by Democrats, claiming such a move would "destroy" their party. He also touted a new White House ballroom as the "most beautiful in the world."