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White House Press Secretary Rebuffs CNN’s Kaitlan Collins in Tense Exchange
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt firmly rebuffed CNN’s Kaitlan Collins during a press briefing, while justifying the use of the Signal app by Trump administration officials for communications regarding a military strike. The exchange highlighted ongoing scrutiny over the administration’s communication protocols and transparency with the press.
Press Secretary Defends Signal Use, Dismisses Concerns
Collins questioned Leavitt about whether the president felt “misled” by national security advisors who had asserted that no classified information was shared via the Signal messaging platform. This query followed reports and publications raising concerns about the appropriateness and security of using Signal for such sensitive communications.
Leavitt responded, “I have addressed this question multiple times already, and my answer remains consistent: the president’s stance today mirrors his stance yesterday.”
Abruptly Ends Questioning from CNN Correspondent
When Collins attempted a follow-up question, Leavitt swiftly cut her off, stating, “Kaitlan, I’m not taking your follow up.” Despite Collins reiterating her desire to ask a follow-up, Leavitt remained firm, repeating, “Kaitlan, I am not taking your follow up,” before proceeding to call on a reporter from RealClearPolitics, Philip Wegman.
Controversy Surrounds Leaked Signal Chat
Leavitt confirmed that President Trump had reviewed the text messages from the Signal chat, which were made public by The Atlantic magazine after its editor-in-chief, Jeffrey Goldberg, was mistakenly included in the conversation. The content of these messages and the circumstances of their release have fueled debate and media attention.
Dismisses Article as ‘Sensational Spin’
The White House Press Secretary dismissed The Atlantic’s article as “word games” and “sensational spin,” characterizing the editor, Jeffrey Goldberg, as an “anti-Trump sensationalist reporter” and “anti-Trump hater.”
Leavitt further added, “He is a registered Democrat. Goldberg’s wife is also a registered Democrat and a significant Democrat donor who previously worked for Hillary Clinton,” implying a bias in the reporting.
Press Briefing Tensions Escalate
Frustration mounted for Leavitt as journalists continued to press her on the Signal chat incident, marking a particularly challenging briefing in her tenure. The persistent questioning underscored the media’s focus on transparency and accountability regarding the administration’s communication practices.
Shifts Focus to Presidential Announcement
“I have answered the same question, phrased in slightly different ways, repeatedly,” Leavitt stated. “If anyone has a different line of inquiry, numerous significant global events are currently unfolding.” She then alluded to an upcoming presidential announcement later that day concerning tariffs, attempting to redirect the conversation.
Maintains Trust in National Security Team
Leavitt asserted that President Trump maintained “great trust” in his national security team, despite the ongoing discussion regarding their use of the Signal application for discussions about a military operation targeting Houthi rebels in Yemen. This declaration aimed toProject an image of confidence and unity within the administration.
Accuses Media of Hypocrisy
“We will not accept lectures on national security and American troops from Democrats and the mainstream media,” Leavitt declared, “especially from those who overlooked the Biden administration’s incompetence that led to the deaths of 13 service members in Afghanistan, for which no one in the prior administration faced repercussions for that disastrous withdrawal.” This statement served as a counter-attack, attempting to deflect criticism and shift blame.
Briefing Concludes Abruptly
Leavitt concluded the press briefing after just 22 minutes, citing the need to conclude before Vice President JD Vance’s scheduled address at a military base in Quantico, Virginia.
“I would prefer to avoid overshadowing the Vice President of the United States,” she stated, providing a reason for the early conclusion of the session.