The mainstream media’s relationship with truth has become increasingly strained in recent years. Like a teenager caught sneaking out past curfew, there’s always an excuse, always another side to the story.
In an era where trust in traditional news outlets continues to plummet to historic lows, certain journalists seem determined to make themselves the story. The numbers tell the tale: viewership of legacy media networks dropped another 27% since January.
President Donald Trump delivered a masterclass in press room management on February 13, 2025, effectively shutting down CNN’s Kaitlan Collins during what should have been a straightforward policy announcement.
The exchange, which occurred during the signing of new reciprocal tariff measures, highlighted the growing tension between the administration and certain media outlets.
From Breitbart:
President Donald Trump hushed CNN’s Kaitlan Collins when announcing his proposed tariff increases, charging that she spoke out of turn.
“President, you won the White House, in part, because of high inflation. If your tariffs make prices go up-” she said as Trump immediately interjected.
“Excuse me, we haven’t asked you to speak yet,” the president shot back.
As the president unveiled the signed tariff plan before reporters, he then asked questions and skipped over Kaitlan Collins.
President Trump absolutely TORCHES Fake News CNN's @kaitlancollins for rudely interrupting: "Excuse me, we haven't asked you to speak yet" 🔥 pic.twitter.com/QPDuKILalA
— Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) February 13, 2025
More Than Just Another Press Room Spat
The confrontation escalated moments later. When Collins pressed Trump about his trust in Vladimir Putin regarding peace negotiations, the president addressed CNN’s credibility crisis directly.
“I know [Biden is] a friend of yours,” Trump stated. “He’s a friend of CNN. That’s why nobody watches CNN anymore. Because they have no credibility.”
The response drew knowing reactions from other journalists in the room.
This comes just days after Collins, who commands a $3 million annual salary, publicly complained about increased workload under the current administration – in stark contrast to what she termed “quieter weekends” during the Biden years.
Policy Over Performance
The substance of the day’s announcement was lost amid the media theatrics: a comprehensive reciprocal tariff plan designed to level the global trading field. The measure ensures American trade partners face the same tariff rates they impose on U.S. goods.
“No more or no less… They charge us a tax or tariff, and we charge the exact same tax or tariff,” Trump explained, maintaining focus on policy despite repeated interruptions.
The plan represents a significant shift in America’s approach to international trade negotiations.
The Bigger Picture
This incident illuminates the broader media landscape of 2025. While crucial policy discussions demand attention, certain outlets appear more invested in creating confrontational moments than reporting substantive news.
The American public has taken notice. Recent Nielsen ratings show CNN’s primetime viewership falling below that of several streaming news startups, suggesting viewers are actively seeking alternative sources for their news consumption.
Key Takeaways:
- Trump refused to answer a CNN reporter after she interrupted him in the Oval Office.
- Americans deserve news coverage focused on policy substance rather than manufactured controversy.
- Declining media credibility directly correlates with an increasing focus on confrontation over content.
Sources: Breitbart, Mail Online, New York Post
