ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
Trump says traditional media needs him
President says he now relies on social media and predicts news outlets will lose audiences.
-
IANS - Sat, 25, Jul 2026
- 02:07 EDT
- 29
President Donald Trump / Photo: Xinhua via IANS
U.S. President Donald Trump said he has "given up" on traditional news organizations in favor of social media, while telling journalists gathered at the White House Correspondents' Dinner that they would struggle to attract audiences once he leaves office.
Speaking before reporters and media executives, Trump alternated between criticizing mainstream news outlets and praising his ability to communicate directly through digital platforms.
Also read: Ravi Thadani takes on Cedars-Sinai leadership role
"I gave up on traditional press," Trump said.
"I'm number one on TikTok."
Trump argued that his social media presence had proved more effective than relying on conventional media coverage and claimed news organizations depended heavily on him for readership and television ratings.
"You people have no idea how lucky you are. When I'm gone, you're all going to be broke."
"There's not going to be anybody to report on," he said, adding, "Nobody gives a damn about anybody else."
The president also spoke about his interactions with reporters, saying he had once complained that journalists were no longer contacting him after returning to the White House.
According to Trump, that changed after he personally shared his mobile phone number.
"I said, 'You know what? I'm going to give the press my phone number.'"
"That was the stupidest thing I ever did."
Trump said reporters now contact him constantly.
"I'm getting a call every 3.7 minutes."
He encouraged journalists to identify themselves when calling.
"You're much better putting your name because if there's no name, I just can't do that."
Trump said he often responds to reporters because he believes speaking directly improves the accuracy of news coverage.
"I always find that when you don't speak to the press, you always get a bad story."
"When you do speak to the press, you have a shot at getting a good story."
Despite repeatedly criticizing media organizations during his remarks, Trump said he supported press freedom.
"I hope all of you know that I believe in the free press more than anyone in this room does."
"Maybe not," he added.
The president also described himself as "the most open and transparent president in history," contrasting his approach with that of former President Joe Biden, whom he claimed had answered fewer questions from reporters.
Throughout the speech, Trump said he respected journalists despite frequently disagreeing with their coverage.
"I have tremendous respect for the people in this room," he said.
"Sometimes I don't feel you treat me fair."
"But sometimes you treat me very fairly... And I have a lot of respect for your profession."
Earlier in the evening, Trump joked that he receives "93 per cent negative publicity" while teasing several television personalities and journalists, including CNN's Caitlin Collins, whom he congratulated on receiving a journalism award.
Before introducing the president, outgoing White House Correspondents' Association President Weijia Jiang defended the First Amendment, saying criticism of the media was legitimate but warning that efforts to undermine press freedom threatened the constitutional protections underpinning American democracy.
Discover more at New India Abroad.
Leave A Comment
Related
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
E Paper
Video
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login