Trump Attacks ABC Reporter Over Military Strike Footage
Donald Trump lashed out at ABC senior political reporter Rachel Scott during a press briefing on December 8, 2025. He labeled her as “terrible” and “the most obnoxious reporter” after she pressed him about releasing classified video footage of a controversial military strike on a suspected drug boat. This conflict arose following allegations against Secretary of War Pete Hegseth regarding a second illegal strike on survivors from the initial attack, which reportedly killed nine people.
In response to Scott’s inquiry about his commitment to releasing the footage, Trump dismissed her question, claiming he previously stated it was up to Hegseth to decide. He also denied having made a previous comment about having “no problem” with the footage’s release, accusing ABC of disseminating “fake news.”
Scott’s persistent line of questioning highlighted the ongoing scrutiny surrounding Hegseth’s military decisions, particularly a Washington Post report suggesting he ordered a second strike on survivors, which was contested by military officials. The incident underscores the tensions between the Trump administration and the media, particularly regarding military transparency and accountability.
Trump defended the administration’s military actions, claiming that over 20 strikes have significantly reduced drug smuggling operations, attributing a 94% reduction in drug boat activities to these efforts. His confrontational stance toward Scott is part of a broader pattern of hostility towards female reporters.
Criticism of Trump’s administration continues to grow, as many experts and officials call into question the legality and ethical implications of the military operations ordered under Hegseth’s command.