Megyn Kelly addressed a snarky reporter’s question to President Trump about NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte calling him “Daddy” during the NATO summit. The incident unfolded when Rutte used the term “Daddy” to describe Trump’s role in mediating conflicts like the Israel-Iran ceasefire, comparing the nations to “two kids in a schoolyard” . Trump responded lightheartedly, joking that Rutte had called him “Daddy” affectionately, which drew laughter from attendees including Secretary of State Marco Rubio .
Kelly covered this exchange on her show, criticizing the reporter’s tone while highlighting the rapport between Trump and Rutte. Her commentary emphasized Trump’s commanding leadership style, consistent with her conservative perspective that champions strong American authority in global affairs . The segment reinforced Trump’s narrative of requiring “strong language” to manage international disputes, a point he reiterated during the summit .
This episode exemplified Rutte’s diplomatic approach of using flattery to navigate relations with Trump, now nine months into his NATO leadership role . Kelly’s analysis framed the interaction as evidence of Trump’s dominant presence on the world stage, dismissing the reporter’s line of questioning as unserious .