Kaitlan Collins Credits Karoline Leavitt for Defending Press Rights in Saudi Arabia

During a recent interview on the "Absolutely Not" podcast, CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins recounted a significant incident that occurred during a trip to Saudi Arabia with President Donald Trump in May 2022. The event highlighted the challenges faced by journalists in authoritarian regimes. Collins described how, after asking a question to President Trump in the presence of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the Saudi Royal Guard attempted to bar her from attending a subsequent press event. This reaction stemmed from their unfamiliarity with the concept of a free press, as Collins noted, "they don’t have a free press."

Daily Wire

Collins credited White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt for intervening on her behalf. When younger White House staffers expressed uncertainty about how to handle the situation, they approached Leavitt, who decisively stated, “No, Kaitlan’s coming in with the rest of the U.S. press.” This action allowed Collins to attend the event without further incident, emphasizing the importance of maintaining press freedoms, especially when representing the United States abroad.

Daily Wire

The incident underscores the ongoing tension between press freedoms and the practices of authoritarian governments. Collins remarked on the significance of Leavitt's support, stating, “it didn’t become this huge issue,” which could have escalated tensions between the U.S. and Saudi officials. This moment serves as a reminder of the delicate balance journalists must navigate when covering international events, particularly in countries where media restrictions are prevalent.

Mediaite

In the aftermath of the incident, Collins received support from her colleagues, including CNN anchor Jake Tapper, who defended her on social media, asserting that Collins is “a great reporter & person.” This public backing highlights the solidarity among journalists in the face of challenges to press freedom.

The Hill

Despite the supportive responses, Collins has faced criticism from Trump, who has previously labeled her as “the worst reporter” during a confrontation in the Oval Office. This exchange reflects the contentious relationship between the former president and the media, particularly with reporters who challenge him.

The Hill

• “The Saudi Royal Guard kind of freaked out because I dared to ask a question, and they’re not used to that there because they don’t have a free press,” — Kaitlan Collins, CNN Anchor

Daily Wire

• “To her credit, she said, ‘No, Kaitlan’s coming in with the rest of the U.S. press.’ And we went in, and it didn’t become this huge issue,” — Karoline Leavitt, White House Press Secretary

The Hill

• “CNN has no ratings because of people like you.” — Donald Trump, Former President

The Hill

This incident illustrates the complexities of journalistic integrity and the vital role of press officials in safeguarding the rights of reporters, especially in foreign contexts where press freedoms are not guaranteed.

Mediaite