A Subtle Response to Public Criticism
Following provocative comments made by Donald Trump during the rescheduled White House Correspondents Dinner in Washington, D.C., CNN correspondent Kaitlan Collins offered a measured reaction. On Saturday, July 25, the 34-year-old journalist shared an inspirational message on her Instagram Story, quoting former First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt:
“No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.”
The Context of the Controversy
The tension surfaced less than a day after Donald Trump, 80, targeted Collins during his speech at the Waldorf Astoria. The former president's remarks focused on Collins' professional achievements, specifically her award for Excellence in Presidential News Coverage, before shifting to derogatory comparisons.
Trump remarked on Collins' demeanor, stating, “[Collins is] a young, attractive woman. She never smiles,” before adding, “I said, ‘Kaitlan, do you ever smile? Smile. You have a nice position, you’re at CNN fake news, you should be a happy person.’”
During the same appearance, Trump drew a comparison between the CNN reporter and activist Dylan Mulvaney, referencing the controversy surrounding Mulvaney’s 2023 campaign with Bud Light. Critics have widely described the president's commentary as transphobic.
Support and Solidarity
In the wake of the event, Dylan Mulvaney, 29, appeared to acknowledge the situation by resharing Collins’ post on her own Instagram account. Meanwhile, CNN issued a formal statement defending their correspondent:
“Kaitlan Collins is an exceptional, trusted journalist being honored tonight for her depth of knowledge and the context she provides to audiences all over the world. She reports every day from the White House and the field with real strength and tenacity... We stand by her to the fullest extent.”
Background on the Event
The dinner took place at the Waldorf Astoria following a disruption at the Washington Hilton on April 25, where gunfire near the ballroom forced the evacuation of high-profile attendees, including Trump and Vice President J.D. Vance.
According to the Justice Department, the suspect, 31-year-old Cole Tomas Allen, was apprehended by the Secret Service. Allen faces multiple federal charges, including attempted assassination of the President of the United States. During a hearing on May 11, the suspect entered a plea of not guilty.