Former US President Donald Trump launched a remarkable attack on a female journalist during an Oval Office press conference, criticising her for not smiling while she asked questions about survivors of convicted paedophile Jeffrey Epstein.
Trump Dismisses Epstein Files Revelations
During the event, Trump was questioned by CNN's Kaitlan Collins about the latest tranche of Epstein documents released on Friday. The reporter specifically asked about email exchanges involving Elon Musk and Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick that appeared in the files.
Trump responded dismissively, stating: "No, I have a lot of things I'm doing. I don't know. You mentioned two names. I'm sure they're fine. Otherwise there would have been major headlines."
Despite Trump's assertion, the appearances of both Musk and Lutnick in the Epstein files did generate significant media coverage across numerous news outlets throughout the weekend.
Survivors' Concerns Dismissed
Collins pressed further, raising concerns from survivors about extensive redactions in the newly released documents, with entire witness interviews reportedly blacked out.
Trump interrupted, stating: "Well I've also heard they thought they released too much. And now you're telling me something else."
The former president then suggested it was time to move on from the Epstein case, claiming: "I think it's time for the country to get on to something else, really. Now that nothing came out about me. Other than it was a conspiracy against me, literally, by Epstein and other people. But I think it's time for the country to get on to something else. Like healthcare or something that people care about."
Personal Attack on Reporter
When Collins asked what message Trump would have for survivors who feel they haven't received justice, the exchange took a personal turn.
Trump lashed out at the journalist, declaring: "You are so bad. You are the worst reporter. CNN has the worst ratings because of people like you. You know, she's a young woman and I've never seen you smile. I've known you for ten years, I've never seen a smile on your face."
Collins responded by reminding Trump of the serious nature of her question: "I'm asking about survivors of a sexual abuser."
Undeterred, Trump continued his criticism: "You know why you're not smiling? Because you know you're not telling the truth. It's a very dishonest organisation and they should be ashamed of you."
Persistent Criticism
Later in the same event, Trump was questioned about the resignation of Peter Mandelson from the House of Lords, to which he replied that he didn't know anything about it but considered it "too bad."
As journalists were being escorted from the Oval Office at the conclusion of the press conference, Trump could be heard complaining to a Republican congressman about Collins, once again remarking that she "never smiles."
The incident highlights Trump's continued dismissal of the Epstein case while simultaneously attacking journalists who pursue questions about the sensitive matter involving survivors of sexual abuse.
