UPDATE: White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt has ignited controversy after labeling S.V. Dáte of the Huffington Post a “far left hack” in a heated text exchange that has gone viral. This urgent incident underscores the growing tensions between the Trump administration and mainstream media outlets.
In a post on social media platform X just hours ago, Leavitt shared a screenshot of her exchange with Dáte, sparking widespread discussion about media bias. The exchange began with Dáte questioning President Trump’s awareness regarding the significance of Budapest, a key location in upcoming diplomatic discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin.
The text from Dáte read, “Is the president aware of the significance of Budapest? In 1994, Russia promised not to invade Ukraine if it gave up nuclear weapons. Does he not see why Ukraine might object to that site?” Leavitt’s response was sharp and humorous: “Your mom did.”
Dáte pressed further, asking if the situation was funny to her. Leavitt replied, “It’s funny to me that you actually consider yourself a journalist. You are a far left hack who nobody takes seriously.” This confrontational tone reflects a significant shift in how some members of the Trump administration are engaging with the press.
In her accompanying post, Leavitt criticized journalists who, in her view, masquerade as serious reporters while pushing biased narratives. “Activists who masquerade as real reporters do a disservice to the profession,” she stated, echoing sentiments from many within the Trump circle who feel underrepresented by mainstream media.
This incident comes on the heels of the shocking assassination of conservative figure Charlie Kirk last month, which has drawn fierce backlash from supporters of the Trump administration. Leavitt’s comments serve as a reminder of the heightened political tensions that are currently shaping the media landscape.
The White House has become increasingly vocal about its disdain for what it perceives as biased reporting, especially regarding issues like the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and relations with Russia. Leavitt’s exchange with Dáte exemplifies the administration’s strategy of confronting media narratives head-on, rather than sidestepping them.
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, these confrontations are likely to escalate. Leavitt, along with other prominent figures in Trump’s second administration, such as Secretary of War Pete Hegseth and Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard, are positioning themselves as advocates for the “Make America Great Again” movement.
The implications of this exchange will resonate beyond social media, as it raises questions about the relationship between political figures and the press. Observers are urged to consider how this dynamic will impact the flow of information as the administration prepares for an aggressive electoral campaign.
What to Watch Next: As the fallout from this incident continues to unfold, expect further reactions from both sides of the political aisle. Leavitt’s bold statements may encourage other officials to adopt a similar approach toward the media, potentially shifting the narrative heading into the 2024 elections.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
