Donald Trump has accused NBC News of misrepresenting his remarks about Civil War generals Robert E. Lee and Ulysses S. Grant, sparking a fresh dispute between the president and the media. The controversy began after NBC tweeted a video from a rally in Ohio, claiming Trump called Lee 'incredible' — a description he actually used for Grant.
During the rally, Trump called Lee a 'great general' but reserved the term 'incredible' for Grant, adding a comment about Grant's drinking problem. NBC initially tweeted 'WATCH: President Trump says Robert E Lee was a great general during Ohio rally, calling the Confederate leader incredible.' The president responded on Sunday, saying the network 'totally and purposely changed the point and meaning of my story.'
NBC later corrected its tweet, posting the full video of Trump's remarks alongside a correction. Trump thanked the network for the correction but maintained that the original reporting was dishonest. NBC did not comment further.
The episode highlights ongoing tensions between Trump and the press, as well as the sensitivity around Confederate symbols. Trump has previously defended statues of Confederate leaders, drawing criticism for his response to the 2017 Charlottesville violence.
Grant, who led the Union to victory and later served as president, has seen his reputation improve in recent years, while Lee's legacy remains contentious. Trump's remarks were part of a broader monologue praising Ohio-born figures, including President William McKinley and Grant.
