A former White House reporter described a tense exchange with Donald Trump, revealing the challenges of questioning the former president during press conferences. In an essay published over the weekend titled “Trump still sounds like a child,” Brian J. Karem recounted a moment when Trump demanded he “shut up” or risk leaving the press briefing. Karem’s reflections highlight the often hostile environment reporters faced under Trump’s administration.
Karem, known for his pointed questioning, particularly regarding the peaceful transfer of power after the 2020 election, detailed his interactions with Trump, noting the former president’s tendency to belittle journalists. He specifically criticized Trump’s recent derogatory comment when he referred to a reporter as “piggy,” underscoring a pattern of disrespect towards the media. “He usually talks down to women, dismisses them and belittles them,” Karem stated. “But it’s not limited to women. Donald Trump is worse than a misogynist.”
In his essay, Karem elaborated on Trump’s complex personality, suggesting that the former president harbors a deep-seated disdain for others unless they serve his interests. He remarked, “He’s obviously a racist, but that’s not the whole story. He’s a misanthrope. He absolutely loathes everyone—unless there’s something in it for him.” This characterization paints a picture of a leader whose interactions often reflect self-interest rather than genuine engagement.
Karem recalled the pressure he felt during their exchanges, which frequently led to Trump exhibiting visible frustration. “His face occasionally got red. He stammered. He pointed his finger,” Karem wrote. Despite the tension, he continued to press Trump with questions, even after the president threatened to leave the press conference if Karem did not remain quiet. “I didn’t shut up. He didn’t leave,” Karem noted, emphasizing his determination to hold Trump accountable.
Reflecting on his experiences, Karem compared his interactions with Trump to previous presidents, stating, “I have asked questions of every president since Ronald Reagan. I have been told to be quiet on more than one occasion.” He expressed a sense of pride in having challenged Trump more directly than his predecessors, highlighting the unique nature of the Trump administration’s approach to the media.
Karem’s essay serves as both a personal account and a commentary on the broader treatment of journalists under Trump, illustrating the turbulent dynamics that characterized the relationship between the media and the former president. His observations resonate with ongoing discussions about press freedom and the role of journalism in a democratic society.
As the media landscape continues to evolve, Karem’s reflections remind us of the critical importance of holding public figures accountable and the challenges inherent in that pursuit.
