VIDEO President Trump: I Never Said Mexico Would Directly Pay For A Wall (He Did) | The 11th Hour | MSNBC

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President Trump: I Never Said Mexico Would Directly Pay For A Wall (He Did) | The 11th Hour | MSNBC In a notable episode of The 11th Hour with Brian Williams, a key focus was placed on President Trump's evolving statements regarding the funding of the U.S.-Mexico border wall. Originally, during his campaign, Trump consistently asserted that Mexico would be responsible for the wall's funding, which sparked significant controversy and skepticism among both political opponents and supporters. As the government shutdown dragged into its 20th day, Trump attempted to clarify his earlier promises, stating, "They [Mexicans] need a barrier. They need a wall. If you don’t have it, it will be nothing but hard work and grueling problems... a lot of death." This statement underscored the urgency he placed on wall construction as a solution to immigration and border control issues . During the broadcast, Trump reiterated his stance, implying that while Mexico wouldn't write a direct check for the wall—estimated at $20 billion—he suggested that their financial commitment would manifest through a favorable trade deal. "They’re paying for the wall in a great trade deal," he posited, weaving a narrative that linked trade negotiations with border security . The discussion also touched on Trump's consideration of declaring a national emergency to expedite wall construction if no bipartisan agreement was reached. This prompted significant debate about the legality and implications of such a move. Political commentators on the show argued that while presidents have wide discretion in defining emergencies, the justification for using military funds for a border wall might not meet legal scrutiny . As this dialogue unfolded, it became evident that Trump's comments were designed to reassure his base during a tumultuous political landscape, even as public opinion polls indicated that over half of Americans viewed the government shutdown negatively, with many blaming the President . This excerpt from The 11th Hour raises crucial questions about the nature of political promises and the intersection of media, public perception, and governance. What are your thoughts on Trump's shifting rhetoric? Do you think it reflects a broader trend in political communication today? Share your views and related experiences below!