Former President Donald Trump made several pointed remarks about CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins during his appearance at the White House Correspondents' Dinner, including a comparison to transgender influencer Dylan Mulvaney.
Trump, who has a history of clashing with Collins during press conferences, suggested he mistook the CNN anchor for Mulvaney, referencing a marketing campaign by Bud Light that sparked controversy. "I thought Kaitlan had really made it big with a major new sponsorship," Trump stated, before adding, "But then I informed her that it wasn't her on the Bud Light can, it was Dylan Mulvaney."
The former president also commented on the financial impact of the Bud Light promotion, stating, "Dylan Mulvaney cost Bud Light $35 billion in market cap." He criticized the advertising campaign as "the worst commercial ever made."
Mulvaney's partnership with Bud Light in 2023, which coincided with her first full year of transitioning, led to significant backlash and calls for boycotts, particularly amplified within conservative circles and on social media. The promotion resulted in a substantial decrease in the beer company's market value.
Trump's remarks also touched on Collins's professional achievements, including her receiving an award from the White House Correspondents' Association. He called the award "fake" but stated he "didn't mind" it. He also commented on her demeanor, telling her, "She's a young, attractive woman, but she never smiles. I said, 'Kaitlan do you ever smile? Smile!' You have a nice position, you're at CNN fake news. You should be a happy person.' So smile, Kaitlan! Just smile."
A spokesperson for CNN defended Collins, stating, "Kaitlan Collins is an exceptional, trusted journalist being honored tonight for her depth of knowledge and the context she provides to audiences all over the world." The spokesperson added, "She reports every day from the White House and the field with real strength and tenacity and skillfully brings that reporting to the anchor chair and CNN platforms every day. We stand by her to the fullest extent."
Trump's speech at the event, held at the Waldorf Astoria due to security concerns following a previous cancellation, also included jabs at other public figures. The dinner proceeded with enhanced security measures.