In a statement posted on X, CNN condemned President Donald Trump’s remarks to reporter Kristen Holmes after he called her a “fake reporter” during an Oval Office exchange.
CNN described Holmes as a respected and accomplished White House journalist and said she had asked a tough, relevant question on behalf of the public.
The network said public officials may challenge reporting they disagree with, but characterized personal attacks on journalists as “beneath the office and inconsistent with the principles of a free press.”
“We stand firmly behind Kristen and reject these attacks in the strongest possible terms,” the statement said.
The statement followed an exchange in which Holmes repeatedly tried to ask Trump a follow-up question about South Korea. Trump called her “disrespectful” and told her, “You’re a loud, boisterous person.”
“You’re a fake reporter and you report fake news,” Trump said.
The exchange occurred during an Oval Office ceremony honoring 16-year-old lifeguard Ryder Williams, who was recognized for a rescue. The White House released video of the encounter Monday, Aug. 17.
This is a developing story. Virginia Times will update as information becomes available.
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