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The New Yorker Radio Hour

Kaitlan Collins Is Not “Nasty”; She’s Just Doing Her Job

Mar 21, 2025
Kaitlan Collins, Chief White House correspondent for CNN, shares her journey from college grad to covering the White House. She recounts the challenges of reporting in a hostile environment during Trump's presidency and how that shaped her approach. Collins discusses Trump's complex relationship with the press, revealing how he seeks validation despite his criticism. She reflects on the evolving dynamics of journalism, the pressures of live interviews, and the need for objectivity in a polarized media landscape.
28:48

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Kaitlan Collins illustrates the heightened tension for journalists during the Trump administration, requiring adaptability amidst a hostile media environment.
  • The evolution of social media profoundly impacts journalism, shaping narratives and presenting challenges in maintaining objectivity and truth in reporting.

Deep dives

The Chaotic Nature of Reporting in the Trump Era

The political landscape in the United States has shifted dramatically with Donald Trump's presidency, leading to increased challenges for journalists. Experienced reporters express astonishment at the rapid changes and the chaotic environment that Trump has cultivated, characterized by unpredictable behavior and incendiary remarks. Caitlin Collins, a White House correspondent, highlights the difficulty of reporting in a climate where the president openly disdains the media, making day-to-day interactions between journalists and the White House fraught with tension. This new reality requires journalists to be exceptionally adaptable, as they navigate a hostile press environment while striving to fulfill their reporting duties.

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