The White House's official rapid response account on X has drawn widespread criticism for a deeply personal online attack on CNN senior White House correspondent Kristen Holmes after she asked President Donald Trump a question.
During an Oval Office event on Monday, Holmes asked Trump for comment regarding remarks made by Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) about Trump's relationship with an aide. Trump responded by repeatedly telling Holmes to be quiet, labeling her question a "cheap shot," calling her "disrespectful," and characterizing her as "fake news."
The White House's rapid response account amplified the confrontation, sharing footage of the exchange and posting a message that called Holmes "a disgraceful, humiliating embarrassment to her alleged profession."
In a further escalation, the account directly addressed Holmes's mother in a post on X, stating, "Someday, your children will come across your disgusting and inhumane question. They will be sickened and embarrassed to have a parent be so callous and vindictive. It’s quite troubling."
CNN defended Holmes, affirming her status as "one of the most respected and accomplished journalists covering the White House." The network stated that "personal attacks on journalists for asking questions are beneath the office and inconsistent with the principles of a free press."
CNN White House correspondent Alayna Treene supported her colleague, describing Holmes as "an incredible reporter, person and, above all, mother."
Former Trump administration officials also condemned the White House's actions. Sarah Matthews, a former deputy White House press secretary, questioned the White House's decision to invoke Holmes's children, calling the response "infinitely more callous and vindictive than her perfectly legitimate question."
Stephanie Grisham, former White House press secretary and communications director, characterized the post as "cowardly & pathetic," urging for the individual behind the anonymous account to be identified.
Chuck Todd, host of Meet the Press, also criticized the behavior, calling it "disgusting" and "cowardly."