Donald Trump on Deep State: Leans believe

The claim: A hidden network of unelected officials secretly controls US government policy.

2018-09-06: “I’m draining the Swamp, and the Swamp is trying to fight back.” source
2019-09-30: “WHO CHANGED THE LONG STANDING WHISTLEBLOWER RULES JUST BEFORE SUBMITTAL OF THE FAKE WHISTLEBLOWER REPORT? DRAIN THE SWAMP!” source
2023-03-04: “I will totally obliterate the deep state. I will fire the unelected bureaucrats and shadow forces who have weaponized our justice system like it has never been weaponized before.” source
2025-03-04: “And the days of rule by unelected bureaucrats are over.” source
2025-05-30: “With you at my side, we will demolish the deep state” source