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President Trump Criticizes CNN’s Kaitlan Collins in Oval Office Exchange
In a rare display of open hostility from the Oval Office, President Donald Trump publicly derided CNN correspondent Kaitlan Collins during a meeting at the White House on Monday. The contentious exchange occurred as Trump met with El Salvadorian President Nayib Bukele, highlighting ongoing tensions between the administration and certain news outlets, particularly CNN. The incident underscores the adversarial relationship and media criticism that has characterized Trump’s interactions with the press, especially concerning White House press briefings and coverage of his administration.
White House Press Briefing Turns Contentious
The exchange began when President Trump, alongside President Bukele, engaged with reporters. Singling out CNN, Trump declared, “Let’s not begin with CNN because they are simply inaccurate,” as Collins stood among the journalists present.
After taking questions from several other members of the press, President Trump pointedly addressed Collins, stating, “Let’s hear a question from this very low-rated anchor at CNN.”
Question on Deported Individual Sparks Further Scrutiny
When Collins posed a question regarding Kilmar Abrego Garcia, an individual who resided in Maryland and was deported to El Salvador, President Trump redirected the query to Attorney General Pam Bondi and Deputy Chief of Staff for Policy Stephen Miller for their responses.
Abrego Garcia, age 29, an undocumented immigrant from El Salvador, was deported by the Trump administration in March. This action was taken despite an immigration judge granting him legal protection from deportation in 2019.
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Both President Trump and President Bukele showed no inclination to facilitate Abrego Garcia’s return to Maryland, even after the Supreme Court instructed the administration to assist in his repatriation.
President Trump Taunts Journalist and Network
“How much longer must we entertain this question from you?” President Trump questioned. “Why can’t you simply acknowledge the positive aspect of removing criminals from our nation? Why is that so difficult for you to say?”
As Collins attempted a follow-up question, pressing on whether President Trump would adhere to the Supreme Court ruling, he escalated his criticism of CNN.
“Why do you persist in revisiting this? That’s precisely why viewership of your network is declining; you lack credibility,” President Trump asserted.
President Bukele Praises Border Enforcement
President Bukele commended President Trump’s swift progress in reinforcing border security along the U.S. Southern border since succeeding President Joe Biden in January.
He inquired about the perceived lack of media coverage in the United States regarding the improved border statistics.
President Trump claimed a “99.1 percent” rate of border enforcement at the southern border, lamenting the media’s disinterest in reporting positive developments.
“While these figures are available, outlets like CNN, which you refer to as ‘fake news,’ are reluctant to disseminate them. They seem averse to publishing favorable numbers, possibly due to a dislike for our country,” President Trump continued.
CNN Responds to President’s Remarks
CNN anchor Dana Bash addressed the President’s comments on her program on Monday afternoon.
“CNN harbors no animosity towards our nation; this should be self-evident,” Bash stated, dismissing his remarks as mere “rhetorical strategy.”
Kaitlan Collins Describes Journalistic Role
In a recent interview with Vanity Fair, Collins discussed her role at CNN, portraying herself as a “joyful warrior” despite facing verbal criticism from the President at the White House.
She characterized President Trump’s critiques of her network as a “diversionary tactic” and emphasized the demanding nature of her profession.
“There is no downtime. A relaxed Friday is an illusion. The moment you anticipate tranquility, the opposite is guaranteed,” she explained.
Collins Seen Relaxing After Masters Tournament
However, Collins appeared to find a moment of respite on Sunday, marking the conclusion of the Masters Golf Tournament with a drink at the Hudson Hound in New York City.
“Green Jacket Sunday,” she posted, sharing the image on her Instagram account.