Trump erupts at Fox News reporter during roundtable: 'What a stupid question'
An agitated President Donald Trump lashed out at two reporters during his White House “Saving College Sports” roundtable, complaining that the journalists failed to stay on topic.
The roundtable was focused on the future of college athletics, especially NIL, athlete compensation, and possible federal legislation. As Trump took questions, he seethed at reporters who failed to ask him about his plans.
In one instance, a reporter asked the president, "Could you tell us what went into the decision to replace [now-former Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi] Noem with Sen. Markwayne Mullin?"
Trump let out a deep sigh.
"Ugh. Is it possible to say on this subject? Just for once? You know, just for once?" he said.
The president never answered the question.
In a separate incident, Fox News reporter Peter Doocy pressed the president on reports that Russia is helping Iran attack American military targets. The president bashed Doocy to his face in response.
"That's an easy problem compared to what we're doing here," the president insisted. "But I - can I be honest? It's just, I have a lot of respect for you. You've always been very nice to me. What a stupid question that is to be asking at this time. We're talking about something else."
"Can we keep this, maybe, a little bit - go ahead, please," Trump added, turning to another reporter.
Later in the conference, Trump told Doocy he'd give him "one more chance."
"Because that was a bad question you asked me," said Trump.
As Doocy replied he already has plenty of soundbites about sports, Trump said he didn't want to "leave him in a lurch."
"Can I ask one off topic?" asked Doocy.
"On topic," Trump directed.
"On topic? Ok," Doocy pressed.
"Which is unusual. For you," Trump said.
"Thank you," Doocy replied.