Trump Calls NY Times ‘Serious Threat’ to ‘National Security’
President Donald Trump labeled the New York Times “a serious threat to the national security of our nation” in a late-night Truth Social post on Monday, calling the outlet “a true enemy of the people” and demanding their behavior “must be dealt with and stopped.” Trump’s attack followed the Times’ publication of an investigative article documenting his decades-long friendship with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, based on interviews with over 30 former employees, abuse victims, and others who knew both men.
The Times reported that beginning in the late 1980s, Trump and Epstein formed an intense bond, with Epstein serving as Trump’s “most reliable wingman” in pursuing women. According to the article, Epstein and his partner Ghislaine Maxwell introduced at least six women who accused them of grooming or abuse to Trump, including one minor, though the Times noted none have accused Trump himself of inappropriate behavior. One victim told the newspaper she was “coerced” into attending four Epstein parties that Trump also attended, at two of which Epstein directed her to have sex with other male guests.
Trump’s public attack on the Times represents his continued pattern of aggressive hostility toward journalists questioning his connections to Epstein, including prior confrontations with ABC News and other media outlets. His characterization of factual reporting as a national security threat aligns with his broader effort to delegitimize independent journalism and suppress scrutiny of his conduct.
The president’s response echoes authoritarian language targeting press freedom, weaponizing national security rhetoric against newsroom investigations that document documented facts about his associations and conduct. By framing investigative journalism as a threat requiring action “must be dealt with,” Trump signals intent to restrict press freedom and suppress accountability reporting.