Former President Donald Trump told CNN anchor Jake Tapper on Sunday that his administration is actively working to direct the network’s coverage, raising questions about press independence.
Trump phoned into CNN to discuss Senator Lindsey Graham’s death and declined to address other topics. During the call, Trump stated, “We’re trying to have CNN go on a normal path, and we’ll do that.” Tapper did not challenge the remark and thanked the former president for calling.
What Trump Said
Trump made the statement without qualification or hesitation during the Sunday interview. “We’re trying to have CNN go on a normal path, and we’ll do that,” Trump said, according to the network’s records.
Tapper concluded the call by saying, “Well, I’m on a normal path right here, sir, and I appreciate your time. And thank you for calling in.” The anchor did not press back on Trump’s characterization of CNN’s editorial direction.
The Response
Social media users quickly criticized both Trump’s statement and Tapper’s response. Viewers accused Tapper of failing to defend editorial independence and CNN of capitulating to political pressure.
The timing of the remark coincided with the Justice Department’s approval of Paramount Skydance’s acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, CNN’s parent company. Critics noted that Trump’s comments about putting CNN on a “normal path” carried additional weight given his administration’s involvement in the merger approval.
Press Freedom Questions
The exchange raised concerns among media analysts about the relationship between political power and news coverage. A sitting president openly stating he is working to influence a news network’s direction represents a significant moment in discussions about press independence.
Tapper had previously stated on air that CNN’s role “is not to try and please the president or only report the statements he likes.” Sunday’s exchange appeared to contradict that principle.
This story has been updated. CNN’s reporting team contributed to this report.
