In a stunning revelation from his forthcoming book, former President Donald Trump has singled out an Australian media executive for one of his most scathing critiques yet, labelling a pivotal 2020 interview a catastrophic failure.
The target of Trump's fury is John Lyons, the Australian-born Executive Director of ABC News who now holds one of the most powerful positions in American journalism. The interview, conducted during the heat of the 2020 presidential campaign, has clearly left a lasting wound.
'The single worst interview I've ever had,' Trump declares in his new book, according to excerpts obtained by DailyMail.com. He lambasts Lyons, accusing him of a 'profound dishonesty' that soured the entire exchange from its opening moments.
A Clash of Questions and Expectations
The confrontation reportedly began immediately over the agreed-upon format. Trump claims he was promised a 'softball' interview, a notion Lyons vehemently denies. This fundamental disagreement set the stage for a tense and combative exchange that the former president is still seething about years later.
Trump's memoir suggests the experience was so negative that it has permanently coloured his view of the entire Australian Broadcasting Corporation network, despite its general reputation for impartiality.
The Power of an Australian in US Media
The attack throws a spotlight on the significant influence of John Lyons himself. A veteran journalist with decades of experience covering global conflicts, Lyons moved from Sydney to New York to take the helm at ABC News. His leadership role at a major US network during one of the most politically volatile periods was already noteworthy; now, it's placed directly in the crosshairs of a former president's wrath.
This public flogging is more than just a recollection of a bad day; it's a calculated entry into the ongoing debate about media bias and the relationship between powerful figures and the press. Trump's decision to dedicate space in his book to this specific interview underscores its significance in his narrative of a presidency perpetually under siege by a hostile media.
The book, set for release imminently, is sure to reignite discussions about journalistic standards, interview ethics, and the enduring power of a televised confrontation to shape political legacies.
