Donald Trump expressed his frustration with CNN and specifically called out “Fake Tapper” when questioned about networks not airing some of his speeches.
During an extensive interview with Fox News’ Howard Kurtz, the ex-president shared his perspective on the media.
During a recent episode of “MediaBuzz,” Kurtz expressed his views about the media, stating, “Everybody has the right to criticize the media.” He referred to a situation after the Iowa caucuses where two networks did not air a speech, and Kurtz himself was critical of this decision. However, he pointed out that when Trump suggested that CNN and NBC should have their licenses revoked, it seemed like a threat against television outlets that produce unfavorable reports.
In response, Trump expressed his amazement at the fact that certain networks chose to cut out parts of his speeches.
“But when you use public airwaves and you give extensive coverage to a candidate, focusing on the negative aspects, and then that candidate triumphs in a sweeping victory and it generates immense excitement, but you fail to cover their speech! It’s truly astonishing,” Trump emphasized. He went on to say,
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?
Kurtz expressed his perspective by saying, “In my opinion, feel free to voice your thoughts later. If you wish to criticize, go ahead.”
