Trump Blames Iran War and Candidates for Midterm Defeat in 60 Minutes Interview

President Donald Trump blamed Republican candidates and the war in Iran for his party's defeat in the midterm elections. He said so in a 60 Minutes interview with Ross Douthat that aired on CBS at 7 p.m. ET. CBS News has published the full transcript, and an extended version of the conversation is also online.

Trump cited the Iran war, higher gasoline prices and his own dislike of Israel as reasons for the Republican losses, according to Variety. He said he would fight the Iran war all over again. He also called his mass deportation policy "too tough." He said he may work with Democrats on an immigration bill next year.

On Israel, Trump said "Without us, Israel wouldn't exist." He also said Israel would have to "pay us back" for the costs of the war, Variety reported.

The sharpest exchange came on forgiveness. Douthat asked whether Trump could forgive enemies such as James Comey and Nancy Pelosi as a condition of getting into heaven. Trump called himself a "religious person" who hopes to go to heaven. He described his enemies as "very bad people" and "very dishonest." He said he probably cannot forgive some of them, because he hates some of his enemies and always will.

Asked what happens when you die, Trump replied, "I hope I'm missed." The interview also covered corruption, UFOs and the afterlife. On his wealth, which has grown, Trump said his son runs his company and that he does not know his net worth.

Trump also talked about who might follow him. Shortly after the interview, Trump elevated Stephen Miller to chief of staff, according to Variety. Trump told the interviewer, "I've had the best two years in the history of the presidency."