Former White House press secretary and current MSNBC host, Jen Psaki, didn’t hold back in responding to Donald Trump’s recent threat against her network. In a Truth Social post, Psaki mocked the ex-president’s “crazy, unhinged” remarks aimed at MSNBC.
On November 28, 2023, Trump took to Truth Social to vent his frustrations, accusing MSNBC of conducting a continuous 24-hour hit job on him and the Republican Party.
He called out Brian Roberts, the Chairman and CEO of MSNBC’s parent company, as a “slimeball” responsible for years of what he deemed as politically motivated attacks, according to an article published by Raw Story on Sunday, December 3, 2023.
Trump went further, suggesting that the government should intervene and make the network pay for its alleged “illegal political activity.”
Psaki, no stranger to the contentious relationship between Trump and the media, dismissed the post as just another in a series of “crazy, unhinged rants” typical of the former president.
She couldn’t resist poking fun at Trump’s use of the third person and inclusion of his middle initial, labeling them as red flags.
However, Psaki quickly shifted to a more serious tone, taking the opportunity to educate on the principles of freedom of the press in the United States. “Trump is promising to resort to an authoritarian tactic should he become president again,” she explained.
While clarifying that the federal government does not have a role in overseeing a cable news network, Psaki emphasized the gravity of Trump’s threat. “What’s important is that he’s threatening to use the power of the government against media he believes is being critical of him.”
The exchange underscores the ongoing tension between Trump and media outlets, particularly those he perceives as critical.
Psaki’s response not only rebuts Trump’s specific claims against MSNBC but also highlights the broader concern over the potential misuse of government power to suppress media dissent.
As Trump hints at possible actions against the network, the incident raises questions about the boundaries of presidential influence over the media landscape.
Psaki’s remarks serve as a reminder of the importance of upholding press freedom and resisting attempts to weaponize governmental authority against critical journalism.
The clash between Trump and MSNBC continues to unfold, showcasing the enduring battle between political figures and the media in shaping public discourse.