A CNN anchor's unguarded reaction during live coverage of a Donald Trump event has sparked controversy and highlighted the network's ongoing challenges. CNN News Central anchor Sara Sidner was caught on a hot mic seemingly mocking an impromptu statement from the former president during his 'Board of Peace' gathering in Washington, DC.
The Live Broadcast Slip-Up
The incident occurred during CNN's live coverage of Trump's 'Board of Peace' event when the former president began praising Paraguay's President Santiago Peña in unexpected terms. "President Peña of Paraguay is here," Trump declared. "President, thank you very much. Young, handsome guy. It's always nice to be young and handsome."
Trump continued with his unusual commentary, adding: "Doesn't mean we have to like you. I don't like young, handsome men. Women, I like. Men, I don't have any interest."
At this moment, a studio microphone captured Sidner letting out an incredulous "What?" before co-anchor John Berman quickly intervened with intentional commentary about the event's proceedings.
Professional Recovery Attempt
Berman immediately shifted focus, explaining: "Right. President Trump is speaking to his Board of Peace. This is the organization he founded first to help rebuild Gaza. And what he's doing right now is going through a list of the people in the room by name, based on the country they're from, in alphabetical order. And he just got to Paraguay. So he's on 'P'."
As Berman spoke, Trump remained on-screen but his audio was muted. The broadcast then cut to a window showing Berman, co-host Kate Bolduan, and a more composed Sidner in their New York studio, with the trio continuing their coverage professionally.
Trump's Board of Peace Agenda
Meanwhile, Trump continued his speech about the newly formed coalition's objectives. He explained that the board would not only work toward achieving peace in Gaza but would also engage in humanitarian efforts globally. "We will help Gaza," Trump proclaimed. "We will straighten it out. We will make it successful. We will make it peaceful. And we will do things like that in other spots."
The former president added separately: "The Board of Peace is going to almost be looking over the United Nations and making sure it runs properly." The event marked the first official gathering of this new organization, with Trump introducing and interacting with several heads of state during the proceedings.
CNN's Broader Context
This incident occurs against a backdrop of significant challenges for CNN. The network has reportedly shed nearly two-thirds of its primetime viewers and nearly one-third of its daytime audience over the past decade. In October 2024, CEO Mark Thompson reportedly requested a drastic reduction in anti-Trump rhetoric, according to several publications.
The network's current ratings have fueled rumors of a possible sale. CNN's parent company, Warner Bros Discovery, which is already up for grabs, has denied these claims. However, Netflix has entered a definitive agreement to acquire Warner Bros Discovery minus its cable assets, which would see CNN cast off to a separate company comprised of declining cable channels.
Paramount, the owner of CBS, has placed a bid as well, ramping up a hostile bid this week in hopes of preventing the Netflix transaction. The Daily Mail has approached CNN for comment regarding the hot mic incident, but no response has been reported at this time.
