A White House press briefing this week defended President Donald Trump after he called a Bloomberg correspondent “piggy” during an Air Force One exchange about the Jeffrey Epstein files. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said the remark stemmed from the president’s frustration with what he viewed as “fake news,” and described his blunt style as a strength.
The confrontation took place when the reporter began to ask why Trump had delayed the documents’ release if no wrongdoing was contained within them. Trump interrupted: “Quiet. Quiet, piggy,” and refused to continue.
Afterwards, Leavitt defended the interaction, stating that Trump’s directness and readiness to engage with the press daily are part of his commitment to transparency. She emphasized that the administration offers more access than previous administrations and that the president’s tone should be viewed as honest rather than offensive.
The incident has reignited debate about civility in the White House’s media relations and the treatment of journalists, especially women, during press events.