Full Breakdown
Trump Calls for ABC's License Revocation After Epstein Question
11/19/2025, 1:57:04 AM
Tense Exchange in the Oval Office
On November 18, 2025, during a press conference in the Oval Office with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, President Donald Trump confronted ABC News reporter Mary Bruce over her questions regarding the Jeffrey Epstein files and the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi. Trump accused Bruce of having a negative attitude and labeled her a "terrible reporter," asserting that her questions were insubordinate and poorly phrased. He stated, “It’s not the question that I mind. It’s your attitude,” before suggesting that ABC's broadcast license should be revoked due to what he described as "fake news" and "wrong" reporting.
Background on the Epstein Files
The exchange occurred shortly before the House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly to compel the Department of Justice to release documents related to Epstein, a convicted sex offender who died in custody in 2019. Trump had previously expressed support for the release of these files but faced scrutiny for not acting unilaterally to expedite their release. Bruce's inquiry about why he did not simply order the release himself prompted Trump's outburst.
Trump's Defense of Saudi Arabia
In addition to the Epstein question, Bruce had also pressed Trump on his family's business dealings in Saudi Arabia and the implications of Khashoggi's murder, which U.S. intelligence has linked to bin Salman. Trump defended the Crown Prince, stating, “A lot of people didn’t like that gentleman that you’re talking about,” referring to Khashoggi, and dismissed the inquiry as embarrassing to his guest. He reiterated his stance that bin Salman had no involvement in the murder, despite evidence to the contrary.
Official Statements & Responses
Trump's comments included a direct attack on ABC News, claiming, “I think the license should be taken away from ABC because your news is so fake and so wrong.” He suggested that Federal Communications Commission (FCC) Chairman Brendan Carr should investigate the network's license. This incident is part of a broader pattern, as Trump has previously criticized various media outlets, alleging bias against him.
Criticism & Opposition
The exchange drew significant backlash from various commentators and political figures. Senator Edward Markey (D-MA) condemned Trump's remarks as "thin-skinned" and "un-American," while former Obama adviser David Axelrod characterized Trump's reaction as a "hissy fit." Critics argue that Trump's threats against media outlets undermine press freedom and reflect an authoritarian approach to dissenting voices.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Trump has consistently denied any close ties to Epstein, recent emails released by the House Oversight Committee indicate that Epstein had discussed Trump in correspondence. This contradiction raises questions about the accuracy of Trump's claims regarding his past relationship with Epstein.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I think you are a terrible reporter. It’s the way you ask these questions… You could even ask that same exact question nicely.” — President Donald Trump
- “ "It’s a Democrat hoax," Trump said, later adding: "I think the license should be taken away from ABC because your news is so fake and so wrong.” — President Donald Trump
- “You’re a terrible person and a terrible reporter.” — President Donald Trump
- “A lot of people didn’t like that gentleman that you’re talking about,” — President Donald Trump, referring to Jamal Khashoggi
What's Next
As the House bill to release the Epstein files moves to the Senate, Trump's ongoing conflict with media outlets like ABC News is likely to continue, raising further questions about the relationship between the presidency and the press.
