Donald Trump sparked fresh controversy after attacking CNN reporter Kaitlan Collins during a June 3 Oval Office press briefing, accusing her of having “hatred in her eyes” and calling CNN a “corrupt organization.”
The exchange began after Trump was asked about a proposed $1.8 billion DOJ program meant to compensate people who claim they were wrongly targeted by federal prosecutors. Instead of answering directly, he criticized former Presidents Obama and Biden, then turned his attention to Collins.
He described her as a “beautiful woman” who “never smiles,” repeatedly suggesting she looked at him with “hatred.” Collins remained silent while he spoke.
When Trump returned to the topic, Collins pressed him again for clarity on the fund. He said he would need to consult lawyers and admitted he didn’t know its status, later calling it “a beautiful thing” before again criticizing the media.
As she continued questioning him, Trump told her, “Wait a minute, be quiet,” and referenced her Alabama background. Collins corrected him, saying she was still from Alabama.
The confrontation adds to a long history of tense exchanges between Trump and Collins, who has frequently challenged him at briefings. Trump has repeatedly commented on her demeanor in past events, including earlier remarks that she “never smiles.”
Collins has previously addressed the dynamic publicly, saying reporters shouldn’t make interactions about themselves but acknowledging tensions can escalate under Trump’s responses.
The incident is part of Trump’s broader pattern of clashes with journalists, including past remarks that have drawn widespread criticism from press freedom groups.!!
Leave a Reply