Story perspectives

Trump Defends Against Racism Claims in White House Briefing

2/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

During a February 18, 2026 White House briefing, CBS reporter Ed O’Keefe pressed U.S. President Donald Trump to cite examples of him being falsely labeled racist.
Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, said she would gather numerous examples from the internet.
Trump defended his record, citing criminal justice reform and funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities, recalling the late Reverend Jesse Jackson, saying Democrats unfairly label him racist.

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Story summary

During a February 18, 2026 White House briefing, CBS reporter Ed O’Keefe pressed U.S. President Donald Trump to cite examples of him being falsely labeled racist.
Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, said she would gather numerous examples from the internet.
Trump defended his record, citing criminal justice reform and funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities, recalling the late Reverend Jesse Jackson, saying Democrats unfairly label him racist.