Category: Attack the Press

JD Vance Responds to Bombshell Susie Wiles Story

Vice President JD Vance responded to White House Chief of Staff Susie Wiles calling him a “conspiracy theorist” in a Vanity Fair article. Wiles also described Trump as having “an alcoholic’s personality,” called Budget Director Russell Vought a “right-wing absolute zealot,” and characterized Vance’s Trump support as politically expedient rather than principled.

At a Pennsylvania economic event, Vance acknowledged the label but redefined conspiracy theories as “something that was true six months before the media admitted it.” He cited opposition to masking young children during COVID-19 and claims about Biden’s cognitive fitness as examples he now frames as validated positions.

Vance suggested the administration will reduce media access following the Vanity Fair story, stating the White House should give “fewer interviews to mainstream media outlets.” He framed this as a lesson learned from Wiles’s candid remarks being published.

Despite the criticism, Vance defended Wiles’s loyalty to Trump, contrasting her with other officials who he claims say one thing publicly and act differently behind closed doors. He praised Wiles for never being disloyal to the president, positioning her as trustworthy despite her damaging comments to the press.

(Source: https://www.mediaite.com/politics/jd-vance-fires-back-says-he-hopes-trump-admin-has-learned-lesson-after-susie-wiles-called-him-a-conspiracy-theorist-in-vanity-fair/)

Trump Attacks CNN’s Kaitlan Collins In Vicious Name-Calling Rant

Donald Trump unleashed a vicious name-calling tirade against CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, disparaging her as “Stupid” and “Nasty.” This attack emerged after Collins confronted him at a public event about the rising costs of his controversial ballroom project at the White House. Trump claimed the project, funded by private donations and aimed to enhance the venue’s aesthetic, was under budget and ahead of schedule, despite ongoing scrutiny.

During his rant, Trump also inaccurately referred to Collins as “Caitlin Collin’s” and lashed out at CNN, labeling the network “fake news” and denouncing its leadership as “corrupt.” His remarks did not engage with the substance of her questions, which he seemed to misattribute, showcasing his inability to handle criticism and his propensity for erratic outbursts.

The incident highlights Trump’s long-standing animosity towards Collins, a frequent target of his verbal assaults due to her journalistic rigor and critical coverage of his administration. Collins had previously reported on aspects of the ballroom project, including its increasing size and the architect changes, raising concerns about transparency in Trump’s spending practices.

Trump’s combative stance towards the press serves to reinforce an atmosphere of hostility and intimidation aimed at journalists who dare question his actions. This particular episode reflects a broader trend of an authoritarian approach, undermining the role of the media in a democratic society.

Overall, Trump’s behavior towards Collins is emblematic of his disdain for accountability and the press, revealing how personal grievances can often overshadow legitimate inquiries from journalists.

(Source: https://www.mediaite.com/online/trump-attacks-cnns-kaitlan-collins-in-vicious-name-calling-rant/)

Pentagon Grants Press Credentials to Extremist Laura Loomer

The Pentagon has credentialed Laura Loomer, a divisive right-wing activist, to cover President Trump’s Department of Defense. Loomer announced her credentialing on social media, claiming her work has significantly influenced personnel decisions within the Executive Branch and intelligence agencies. This decision is part of the Pentagon’s recent media policy shifts aimed at promoting more conservative and alternative media.

Loomer is known for her controversial attacks against even some of Trump’s allies, a fact that has drawn criticism from multiple quarters, including within the Republican Party. Her influence raises alarms about the Pentagon’s increasing alignment with extremist viewpoints. Loomer had previously criticized Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth over plans to host a Qatari air force facility in Idaho, arguing it was opposed by Trump supporters.

The credentialing follows reports that major news outlets, such as The Hill and The New York Times, have declined to accept the Pentagon’s new press policy. This policy drastically restricts media access and aims to control the flow of information from the Department of Defense, indicating a troubling trend in governmental transparency and press freedoms.

This development occurs against the backdrop of the Trump administration’s ongoing transformation of media engagement, notably favoring voices that align with far-right ideologies. Critics view this as a threat to journalistic integrity and an attempt to marginalize traditional news organizations that uphold independent reporting standards.

As Loomer’s credentialing illustrates the growing influence of extremist figures in the realm of American politics, it poses serious questions about the future of military and governmental media relations under Trump’s administration.

Matt Gaetz Attends Pentagon Briefing

Former Congressman Matt Gaetz participated in a Pentagon press briefing, joining various far-right MAGA influencers including Laura Loomer and Jack Posobiec. Credentials for regular reporters were revoked when they refused to sign a pledge to report only on pre-approved materials from Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

During the briefing, Gaetz directed questions to Pentagon Press Secretary Kingsley Wilson, inquiring about the Department of Defense’s role in a post-Maduro Venezuela. Wilson responded that the department has contingency plans and emphasized the importance of their ongoing operations against narco-terrorists, stating each operation saves American lives.

Gaetz pressed further, asking whether the administration views anyone associated with the Venezuelan military or government as automatically a narco-terrorist. Wilson indicated that this determination lies with the President but clarified that targets confirmed as drug traffickers are considered narco-terrorists.

Gaetz, who currently hosts a show on One America News Network, has faced scrutiny for his extreme statements, including anti-Israel rhetoric. His show recently fired a staff member over an anti-Semitic video posted online.

Trump’s White House Launches Media Bias Tracker to Target Critics

The White House has initiated a controversial website aimed at calling out media outlets and reporters for alleged bias. This new platform highlights “media offenders,” including the Boston Globe, CBS News, and the Independent, labeling them as misleading for their coverage of President Donald Trump’s recent inflammatory suggestions regarding military orders and Congress members.

The site features a section that intends to publicly shame those who contradict the administration’s narrative. It comes in response to criticism over Trump’s alarming statements, including his remarks that could be interpreted as inciting violence against six Democratic lawmakers. This tactic has drawn heavy scrutiny from media experts who view it as an attack on press freedoms.

Critics, including seasoned journalists, believe this initiative undermines journalistic integrity and threatens the fabric of a free press by fostering an environment of fear and intimidation. They argue that it reflects a growing pattern of authoritarian behavior from Trump, who continues to weaponize the government against dissenting voices.

This ongoing assault on the media by the Trump administration is part of a broader strategy to consolidate power and suppress accountability. As the White House targets specific publications and journalists, the implications for independent reporting remain serious and concerning.

The White House’s actions may further polarize the relationship between the media and the government, as free press advocates warn against the dangerous precedent set by naming and shaming. These tactics echo historical instances of authoritarian regimes attempting to quell dissent and manipulate public perception.

Trump Degrades Reporter Over Afghan Gunman Vetting Query

President Donald Trump lashed out at a reporter during a press conference regarding the shooting of two National Guardsmen in Washington, D.C., calling her a “stupid person.” The incident involved a suspected Afghan national, who reportedly had worked closely with the CIA, prompting the reporter to inquire about the vetting process for such individuals.

Despite assertions by U.S. officials that the suspect underwent thorough vetting by both the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI, Trump insisted that the Biden administration’s policies were to blame. He claimed that many Afghans entered the U.S. unvetted and should not have been allowed in, disregarding the reported vetting process.

During the heated exchange, Trump emphasized his frustration with what he termed “disgraceful” immigration practices. He dismissed the reporter’s claims, asserting that the vetting system was ineffective and that a law made it difficult to remove those who should not be in the country.

Trump announced the death of Guardsman Sarah Beckstrom, 20, due to the shooting, while another Guardsman, Andrew Wolfe, remains critically injured. This event has drawn increased scrutiny on the handling of Afghan nationals in the U.S. amid ongoing public safety concerns.

The press conference illuminated Trump’s aggressive communication style and continued attempts to shift blame for the violence, further exacerbating tensions surrounding immigration policy discussions.

Larry Ellison Floated Axing CNN Hosts in Takeover Call

Larry Ellison, the largest Paramount shareholder and Trump ally, discussed firing CNN hosts Erin Burnett and Brianna Keilar with senior White House officials during calls regarding Paramount’s bid to acquire Warner Bros. Discovery, according to The Guardian. Ellison also proposed airing CBS properties like 60 Minutes on CNN, ideas said to draw interest inside the White House.

Ellison maintains frequent contact with Trump administration figures despite holding no executive role at Paramount, which is run by his son David Ellison. The informal exchanges occurred as Paramount prepares a full acquisition bid for Warner Bros. Discovery ahead of a November 20 deadline following earlier unsuccessful offers.

Trump is viewed as sympathetic to the Ellisons after Paramount paid a $16 million settlement to him for the controversial Kamala Harris 60 Minutes interview. Multiple Washington consultants with Trump administration ties previously held contracts with Oracle, where Ellison serves as executive chairman.

Trump has demanded CNN be sold, backing the Paramount-Skydance bid. Federal Communications Commission chair Brendan Carr stated he would be “very surprised if there was an FCC role” in the transaction, signaling regulatory alignment with the takeover.

Paramount faces competition from Comcast and Netflix for Warner Bros. Discovery’s acquisition. The discussions demonstrate direct coordination between Trump officials and a major shareholder to reshape CNN’s editorial personnel and content.

(Source: https://www.mediaite.com/media/news/trump-officials-discussed-with-larry-ellison-axing-cnn-anchors-amid-takeover-bid-report/)

Trump Erupts at ABC’s Mary Bruce Over Epstein Inquiry

During a recent Oval Office event with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, President Donald Trump aggressively confronted ABC News’ Mary Bruce after she questioned him about his family’s business dealings in Saudi Arabia and the congressional vote regarding the release of Epstein files. Bruce’s inquiries, which sought accountability, were met with Trump’s characteristic hostility.

When Bruce asked about the appropriateness of his family’s business ties with Saudi Arabia, given the crown prince’s involvement in Jamal Khashoggi’s murder, Trump dismissed her concerns, asserting that “things happen.” His evasive response reflected a troubling disregard for serious ethical implications, further highlighting his willingness to protect authoritarian allies.

Later in the exchange, Bruce pressed Trump on why he would not preemptively release the Epstein files that his administration has opposed. Trump’s aggressive retort labeled Bruce a “terrible reporter,” claiming her questioning lacked respect and was inherently negative toward both him and MBS. Such remarks signify Trump’s continued effort to vilify journalists who hold him accountable.

In a further display of authoritarian impulses, Trump threatened to revoke ABC’s FCC license, denouncing the network’s coverage as a “hoax” and “fake news.” His comments underscore a dangerous pattern of attacking press freedom, echoing tactics seen in regimes hostile to a free press.

The latest confrontation not only demonstrates Trump’s trademark combative nature but also raises alarms about his relentless pursuit of controlling media narratives. This incident aligns with broader concerns regarding his undermining of journalistic integrity, especially when it conflicts with his administration’s agenda.

Authoritarian Trump White House Blasts ABC News as Democrat Spin Operation

The White House criticized ABC News on Wednesday, accusing the network of being “a Democrat spin operation masquerading as a broadcast network.” This statement emerged in a press release that emphasized the White House’s long-standing grievances against the media organization, claiming that it engages in hoaxes and character assassinations targeted at President Donald Trump and his supporters.

The accusatory remarks outlined numerous instances where the White House alleged ABC News had disseminated misinformation or exhibited bias against Trump. The press release highlighted past events, including suspensions of reporters for inaccurate reporting and instances where the network allegedly failed to cover significant stories that could reflect positively on Trump.

ABC News’s so-called history of bias was presented with examples, such as George Stephanopoulos’s failure to ask about Hunter Biden’s controversial laptop, along with claims about unfair portrayals of Trump’s legal difficulties and cabinet nominees. The press release insinuated that ABC News had systematically mischaracterized Trump’s policies and initiatives, thereby attempting to manipulate public perception against him.

A significant portion of the White House’s accusations revolved around accusations of partisan coverage. They noted how, following Trump’s victory in the 2024 election, 90% of ABC’s coverage of his cabinet nominees was allegedly negative. Specific claims included a distortion of Trump’s administration’s intent, presenting legitimate governmental actions as hostile or corrupt.

Ultimately, this vehement attack on ABC News seemed to serve a broader narrative that casts the Trump administration as a victim of media bias, reinforcing his ongoing narrative against perceived enemies in the media landscape. As Trump consolidates power, these tactics exemplify a strategy aimed at delegitimizing news narratives deemed unfavorable to his objectives.

(h/t: https://www.mediaite.com/media/tv/white-house-lashes-out-at-abc-news-democrat-spin-operation-masquerading-as-a-broadcast-network/)

Trump Told a Woman, ‘Quiet, Piggy,’ When She Asked Him About Epstein

During a recent interaction on Air Force One, President Donald Trump demonstrated a disrespectful attitude toward female journalists, specifically targeting Bloomberg’s Catherine Lucey. When Lucey inquired about the release of Jeffrey Epstein’s files, Trump’s condescending response included the phrase “Quiet, piggy,” showcasing a pattern of derogatory remarks towards women in the media.

This is not an isolated incident but part of a broader trend where Trump consistently undermines female journalists. His past comments, including vile insults directed at Megyn Kelly and Yamiche Alcindor, further illustrate his long-standing theme of belittling women who challenge him. Such behavior signals not only an attempt to silence dissent but also a perpetuation of misogyny in the highest office of the land.

Trump’s remarks reflect a toxic view of women’s roles in society, implying they should not speak up or question authority. The term “piggy,” used previously to demean Alicia Machado, reinforces his history of sexist language, which is compounded by numerous allegations of sexual misconduct against him that he has vehemently denied.

The Trump administration’s response to Lucey’s question was dismissive, claiming she was “inappropriate” without providing evidence to support such a claim. This narrative promotes a dangerous environment where journalists are bullied for doing their jobs, severely undermining press freedom and democratic values.

Ultimately, Trump’s comments highlight how he degrades not only the dignity of women but also the position of the presidency itself. As public disdain for his methods grows—particularly among educated women—his actions risk tarnishing the integrity of both his administration and the nation’s political discourse.

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