Watch: Trump Criticizes CNN Reporter Over Epstein Questions, Calls Her “Worst Reporter, Never Smiles”
Watch: Trump Criticizes CNN Reporter Over Epstein Questions, Calls Her “Worst Reporter, Never Smiles”
During a press conference in the Oval Office on Tuesday, US President Donald Trump sharply targeted CNN correspondent Kaitlan Collins after she questioned him about the handling of Jeffrey Epstein-related files. The exchange quickly turned personal, with Trump criticizing Collins for her demeanor and accusing her network of dishonesty.
Collins asked Trump about recent actions by the US Justice Department that resulted in redactions from important documents, noting that survivors of Epstein’s abuse feel justice has not been served. She inquired what message he would give to those who believe they have been denied accountability.
Trump responded, “I’ve known you for ten years. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a smile on your face. You know why you’re not smiling? Because you know you’re not telling the truth. You’re a very dishonest organisation – and they should be ashamed of you.” He added, “I think it’s really time for the country to get on to something else, now that nothing came out about me.”
Even as the press were being escorted out of the Oval Office, Trump continued to gesture toward the media and complain that Collins “never smiles.” This is not the first time the president has singled out the CNN journalist. Previously, he wrote on Truth Social, “Caitlin Collin’s of Fake News CNN, always Stupid and Nasty.”
Trump has a history of lashing out at female reporters. Last year, he famously silenced one journalist by saying, “Quiet! Quiet, piggy.” In November, while addressing questions at his Florida estate regarding the vetting of Afghans entering the United States, he asked, “Are you stupid? Are you a stupid person?” He has also publicly criticized a New York Times article about his age and fatigue, calling the female author “ugly.”
The other journalists in the room should rise up and defend Kaitlan Collins when President Trump goes into bully mode. pic.twitter.com/AqN4iqaL9O
— Fernando Ortega (@Ferndiggity) February 4, 2026
Kaitlan Collins began her journalism career as an entertainment reporter before joining The Daily Caller in 2016 as a White House correspondent. She moved to CNN in 2017 and later transitioned to anchoring roles. CNN has described her as “an exceptional journalist” who covers stories “with real depth and tenacity.”
