Trump criticizes NBC's Kristen Welker
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The gist
Trump said Sunday he will report NBC's Kristen Welker to the FCC for 'rebuke or punishment' over her 'mixed results' comment. The dispute highlights escalating White House pressure on media.
Background
President Donald Trump has repeatedly clashed with journalists and media outlets, often threatening FCC action. His latest target is Kristen Welker, host of NBC's 'Meet the Press,' after she described his endorsement record as 'mixed' during a local NBC affiliate segment. Trump's post on Truth Social accused her of 'purposeful inaccuracy' and called for FCC action. This comes amid broader tensions, including a lawsuit by Disney and ABC alleging FCC retaliation, and the Treasury barring some journalists from G20 meetings.
How it unfolded
- recentlyWelker described Trump's endorsement record as 'mixed' on a local NBC affiliate, prompting Trump's anger.
- Sun, 30 Aug 2026Trump posted on Truth Social that Welker would be reported to the FCC for 'rebuke or punishment,' calling her the 'Unpopular Hostess' of 'Meet the Fake Press.'
- Sun, 30 Aug 2026NBC News issued a statement defending Welker, saying 'Kristen is one of the best in the business and we stand by her.'
Who’s saying what
- President
- Trump claims Welker's 'mixed results' comment is a 'purposeful inaccuracy' and that the FCC should take action against her.
- NBC News
- NBC News defended Welker, stating she is 'one of the best in the business and we stand by her.'
- Former FCC officials
- Former FCC officials from both parties have criticized FCC Chairman Brendan Carr for trying to weaponize the agency and chill free speech.
Still unverified
Trump's claim that Welker's comment was 'purposeful inaccuracy' is disputed; NBC says she did not utter the remarks during the actual broadcast of 'Meet the Press.'