Oh, here we go again, folks! Looks like CNN’s revolving door of White House reporters has spun once more, this time presenting us with Kaitlan Collins. Now, if you’re scratching your head and thinking, “Didn’t she once pen gossip columns for a conservative outlet?” You’re absolutely right! Ah, how times change — or do they? Underneath the new job title, the old habits seem to linger.
During a recent encounter with President Trump, Collins asked if he thought blaming the Democrats and DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion) policies was getting ahead of the investigation into a tragic airline crash involving a military helicopter. Trump, never one to miss an opportunity for a biting comeback, replied that it wasn’t a very smart question — a return to the traditional Trump-style press smackdown that many have come to anticipate.
In the political circus, Collins had her debut moment, but was it the dazzling performance she might have hoped for? Her question, aiming to corner Trump, backfired as he deftly sidestepped, maintaining his blame on DEI hiring practices for questionable FAA standards. Meanwhile, Collins’ inquiry mirrored a disjointed déjà vu that champions of so-called media honesty should recognize, especially those who never scrutinized Russian collusion claims this way.
As the dust settles from this latest press room showdown, Trump’s words are being weighed against the backdrop of one of the deadliest airline crashes in two decades. And while Trump’s comments about diversity hiring might raise eyebrows, his call for merit over optics pushes a point: competence should be the benchmark, not a checkbox on a DEI form. It raises the existing unease many feel about lowering standards in critical fields, sacrificing ability for agenda.
In this era of political ping-pong, Collins might want to rethink her approach. After all, if she intends to fill big shoes, she might need a splash more finesse mixed with less sensationalism. But hey, every CNN reporter needs time to find their footing, and as far as first forays go, this was more like baby steps into the lion’s den.
So here’s to the dance between Presidents and press, where old traditions continue anew – Biden’s administration could choose its battles wisely, and reporters might do well to hone in on probing with purpose, rather than projection. Meanwhile, viewers might find more substance in tuning into commentary that keeps these political antics in check. It’s your boy, Benny, signing off — smart questions, not smart-alecky ones, will win the day. See you next time!
