Mika Brzezinski Discusses Continued Contact with Trump
MSNBC anchor Mika Brzezinski recently confirmed that she and her husband, Joe Scarborough, have stayed in touch with President Trump following their visit to Mar-a-Lago after the 2024 election.
During an appearance on SiriusXM’s “Andy Cohen Live,” the “Morning Joe” co-host was questioned about whether their relationship with Trump continued after a controversial private meeting. Brzezinski simply replied, “Yes.”
When Cohen expressed surprise, she remarked, “It’s called our job.”
Asked if Trump harbors any resentment towards them, she hesitated, saying, “I’m having a hard time answering that because he might be mad at the moment.”
Brzezinski emphasized that keeping up relationships with politicians is crucial for their reporting. “I think it’s important to know the people you’re covering and have as many insights as possible,” she stated.
She mentioned that their approach to all administrations remains consistent. “Every president we covered, we know everyone in the White House and we did our best to get in and out of the records as much as possible,” she explained.
This acknowledgment marks the first time she has confirmed ongoing contact with Trump since their meeting was made public last November, where they aimed to “resume communication” in a fractured political landscape.
The revelation about their visit stirred backlash in media and political circles, with some MSNBC staff expressing concern. Progressive commentators criticized them for “normalizing” Trump after years of sharp on-air critiques.
Following the meeting’s disclosure, “Morning Joe” ratings experienced a decline, with Nielsen data indicating a 15% drop in viewership overall, and a staggering 41% drop among adults aged 25 to 54.
Brzezinski and Scarborough defended their choice, asserting that access to power is essential for journalism, even when it involves political adversaries. They clarified that their meeting was not an endorsement of Trump, but rather a means to report from a complete perspective.
The couple shared concerns about potential backlash from the White House, given Trump’s history of targeting those he perceives as enemies. They described their outreach as both a professional duty and a protective measure.
The controversy has extended beyond MSNBC. On “The View,” Sunny Hostin questioned Scarborough’s credibility, suggesting he was “kissing his ring.” Former Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley criticized the couple for altering their tone in light of declining ratings.
On Cohen’s show, Brzezinski also praised California Governor Gavin Newsom for his adept use of social media to counter Trump. “Half of what he’s doing is hilarious,” she said, adding that Newsom approaches issues in a straightforward manner that resonates with many Americans.
“He’s not holding anything back, and it’s refreshing to hear concerns that so many people in America may be feeling,” she concluded.
The White House has been invited to comment on these developments.
