Donald Trump criticized a female journalist for not smiling while she questioned him about the Jeffrey Epstein case. The US President downplayed the significance of the latest revelations in the Epstein files, suggesting that it was not a priority for the American public. During a press event in the Oval Office, CNN’s Kaitlan Collins queried Trump about Elon Musk and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick’s involvement in email exchanges with Epstein. Trump responded by stating he had not read the new files, expressing confidence in the individuals mentioned and dismissing the need for major news coverage if there were any issues.
Collins also raised concerns about redactions in the released files, citing complaints from survivors about missing information. Trump responded by suggesting that too much had been revealed, indicating a need to focus on other national issues like healthcare. When Collins asked about justice for survivors, Trump accused her of being a dishonest reporter and criticized her for not smiling, implying she was untruthful.
At the same event, Trump commented briefly on Peter Mandelson’s resignation from the House of Lords, stating he was unaware of the situation but found it regrettable. As the media left the Oval Office, Trump was overheard complaining to a Republican congressman about Collins not smiling, emphasizing his dissatisfaction with her demeanor.