President Donald Trump criticized CNN journalist Kaitlan Collins during a White House press interaction, saying she does not “smile enough.” The comments were made during an exchange in the Oval Office while Trump was speaking with reporters.
Donald Trump calls out Kaitlan Collins
Trump addressed the media on February 3 alongside U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson while showing a red-and-white baseball cap that read “America is back.” While speaking, he turned his attention to CNN and said, “Look, CNN is thrilled,” before adding, “She never smiles. Someday I’ll see her smile.”
The remark referred to Collins, who is CNN’s chief White House correspondent. Soon after, Collins attempted to ask a question while Trump was responding to another reporter. “What did you say? Go ahead, CNN,” Trump said. “What would you say to the survivors…,” Collins asked, referring to survivors linked to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Donald Trump interrupted Kaitlan Collins’ question and responded, “You are the worst reporter. No wonder CNN… CNN has no ratings because of people like you.” He continued, “You know she’s a young woman. I don’t think I’ve ever seen you smile. I’ve known you for 10 years, I don’t think I’ve ever seen a smile on your face.”
To which Collins replied, “Well, I’m asking you about survivors.” Trump cut her off again, saying, “You know why you’re not smiling? Because you know you’re not telling the truth. You’re a very dishonest organization and they should be ashamed of you.” Following the exchange, CNN issued a statement defending Collins.
A CNN spokesperson told PEOPLE, “Kaitlan Collins is an exceptional journalist, reporting every day from the White House and the field with real depth and tenacity. She skillfully brings that reporting to the anchor chair and CNN platforms every day, which audiences around the world know they can trust.” This is the latest addition to Trump’s ongoing public criticism of Kaitlan Collins.
