Fact Check: Did Trump Say “Sometimes You Need a Dictator” in January 2026?

Media Bias Fact Check (MBFC) publishes daily vetted fact checks using IFCN-approved sources. Each claim is reviewed for accuracy and context.


Claimant: Social Media


Claim: In January 2026, Donald Trump said, “Sometimes you need a dictator.”


Rating: TRUE


Explanation: Snopes confirmed that President Donald Trump did make the statement “Sometimes you need a dictator” during a January 2026 appearance. The quote was accurately attributed and circulated without alteration, though supporters and critics offered sharply different interpretations of its meaning.


View Full Fact Check


Date: 01/23/2026


Do you appreciate our work? Please consider supporting MBFC.

MBFC Ad-Free

or

MBFC Donation

Last Updated on January 23, 2026 by Media Bias Fact Check

Found this insightful? Please consider sharing on your Social Media: