During a White House press event Wednesday marking the installation of new flag poles on the North and South Lawn, President Trump reminded everyone why his relationship with the mainstream media is as combative as ever. Amid pressing questions about riots in Los Angeles, the Iran-Israel conflict, and ongoing deportations, one particular exchange stood out—and quickly went viral.
When a CNN reporter attempted to press him with a question, Trump didn’t hesitate. “Which outlet are you with?” he asked. As soon as she replied “CNN,” the president let loose.
🚨 LMAO! President Trump turns around and asks the construction workers – "Any illegal immigrants here?"
"If they were, they'd find out. They'll be checking you…your whole life will be destroyed because of this press conference!"
"This one is from you know where…don't… pic.twitter.com/RT9VkbH8xF
— Eric Daugherty (@EricLDaugh) June 18, 2025
“You can hear the groan,” one reporter nearby said, as Trump launched into a full-blown takedown of the network.
Classic Trump, Classic CNN
“Do you ever ask a positive question at CNN?” Trump fired back, brushing off her inquiry about whether his supporters are uneasy about U.S. involvement in airstrikes on Iran.
According to Trump, not only is the concern over a supposed “MAGA civil war” being inflated by the media, but his base is more energized than ever. “They’re more in love with me now than ever before,” he said, suggesting the media’s divisive narrative is falling flat with actual voters.
This moment added to a long list of Trump’s public showdowns with left-leaning outlets, with CNN often at the top of his list. The clip quickly trended on social media, as supporters celebrated yet another instance of the president refusing to play by the media’s rules.
Behind the Scenes: The Real Questions
While the CNN moment stole the spotlight, there were more serious developments happening behind the scenes. Trump had reportedly met with his national security team in the Situation Room earlier that day to discuss U.S. military strategy in the Middle East.
According to sources close to the administration, Trump is weighing whether the United States will assist Israel by directly striking Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility—buried nearly a half-mile underground. Intelligence officials have briefed the president on the possibility of using specialized bunker buster bombs to penetrate the site.
While no official decision has been announced, chatter suggests that a strike could come as soon as this weekend if Trump gives the order.
Media Misses the Moment—Again
The CNN reporter’s question attempted to frame the growing U.S. involvement as a potential wedge issue among Trump’s supporters. But Trump dismissed the claim outright, calling it another fabricated media narrative designed to create division where none exists.
“There’s been a lot of talk about a MAGA civil war over Iran,” Trump said, “all of it coming from the fake news press.”
Rather than focus on escalating tensions in the Middle East or the administration’s response to domestic unrest, the media again seemed more interested in scoring political points. The president’s sharp response made it clear he wasn’t having any of it.
The Trump Doctrine in Action
Trump’s tough stance on Iran, his crackdown on domestic rioters, and his continued focus on American sovereignty have all reaffirmed his commitment to a bold foreign and domestic policy. In moments like these, he reminds both friend and foe that the Trump White House isn’t one to be pushed around—by rogue nations or agenda-driven media outlets.
As the press conference wrapped up, Trump’s now-famous groan at CNN’s question echoed across social platforms—a moment that captured the clash between a combative press and a president who thrives in battle.
