Recently, a CNN reporter, Kaitlan Collins, found herself in the spotlight after a video of Donald Trump making comments about her demeanor during a press conference went viral. Now, she’s speaking out.
Kaitlan Collins, known for her role as both a journalist and anchor at CNN, was attending a White House press conference this past Tuesday. During the session, Donald Trump addressed questions regarding his name’s appearance in the latest reveal of the so-called Epstein files.
The backdrop to this event is a complex web of high-profile connections, as Trump’s name surfaced among many other famous figures, like Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, Sarah Ferguson, and Bill Gates, in materials once in the possession of the US Department of Justice concerning the Jeffrey Epstein case.
In light of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, these documents have gradually been made public, shedding light on an array of prominent names, including business magnates and political figures.
Trump has consistently refuted any claims implying his involvement in Epstein’s scandalous activities, emphasizing that his ties with Epstein ended well before Epstein was convicted in 2008 for soliciting a minor. However, these revelations have kept the media buzzing and posed challenging questions during press briefings.
When directly questioned regarding his inclusion in this most recent batch of documents at an Oval Office meeting, Trump dismissed any allegations, asserting, “Nothing came out about me.”
Collins, staying professional, brought up the presence of influential figures like Elon Musk in the documents and inquired about responses from survivors criticizing the redactions in the files, suggesting a perceived lack of transparency.
Before she could finish, Trump interjected, steering the conversation toward a more personal avenue rather than addressing the inquiry.
In an unprecedented turn, Trump remarked, “You are so bad. You know, you are the worst reporter,” adding, “No wonder CNN has no ratings because of people like you.”
He continued his remarks by stating, “I’ve known you for ten years. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a smile on your face. You know why you’re not smiling? Because you know you’re not telling the truth.”
The former President then accused CNN of ethical failings and finalized his comments with, “I think it’s time for the country to move on, now that nothing came out about me.”
Later that day, Kaitlan Collins addressed the incident on her show, The Source, reflecting on the interaction and sharing her thoughts with viewers.
“He looks at everything through the lens of how it affects him,” she expressed.
Kara Swisher, a fellow contributor at CNN, also lent her support, emphasizing that Collins touched a nerve with her questioning amid the press conference.
“You clearly got under his skin,” Swisher remarked. “His personal attacks were baseless, and your questions about document transparency are legitimate. Complete transparency is necessary.”
CNN’s leadership stood firmly by Collins in their statement to The Wrap, solidifying their backing for her journalism skills and integrity.
“Kaitlan Collins consistently delivers thorough and tenacious reporting from the White House and the field,” the statement assured. “Her insights offer the detailed clarity and credibility that numerous audiences around the globe depend upon.”
