Donald Trump expressed his frustration with CNN and specifically called out “Fake Tapper” when questioned about networks choosing not to broadcast some of his speeches.
In a comprehensive interview with Fox News’ Howard Kurtz, the ex-president shared his perspective on the media.
During a recent episode of MediaBuzz, Kurtz expressed his belief that everyone has the right to criticize the media. He brought up the incident after the Iowa caucuses where two networks did not air a speech given by the individual being interviewed. At the time, Kurtz was highly critical of this decision. However, the individual being interviewed made a statement suggesting that CNN and NBC should have their licenses or privileges revoked. This comment seemed to imply a threat towards television outlets that produce content the individual does not approve of.
Trump expressed his amazement at the fact that certain networks chose to cut out of his speeches, describing it as “incredible”.
“But when you use public airwaves and you continuously provide negative coverage of a candidate for months, and then suddenly that candidate wins by a large margin, it’s quite astonishing that you choose not to cover their speech. It’s truly incredible,” Trump emphasized.
I guess it was “Fake Tapper” or somebody turned it off, he said, “Turn it off.” I think, actually, MSNBC did do it — “MSDNC” — but they did do it. But I think it was CNN that didn’t cover it. Jake Tapper, who I used to know and actually sort of liked him, actually, but he hurts himself very badly when he does a thing like that. And he hurts the ratings, too. You look at CNN ratings, they’re so bad. So, you cover, though — I mean, think of it — you’re covering someone for a year, and this is the culmination, this is the big moment, and people want to watch it, and you say, “I’m not going to put his speech on.” How can you do that?
According to Kurtz, he believed in expressing one’s opinions freely and openly, regardless of whether they were critical or not.
Trump enthusiastically agreed, stating, “Absolutely, you can definitely do that!”