On Monday, White House press secretary Caroline Levitt criticized New York Times journalist Katie Rogers, asserting that recent claims regarding President Donald Trump’s physical fitness were “patently false.” She implied that Rogers offered more favorable coverage of former President Biden.
Just last week, Trump took issue with a report co-written by Rogers, which suggested the 79-year-old president might be slowing down. During the briefing, Levitt was questioned about the White House’s new initiative to counter “fake news” and seized the moment to address what she perceived as inaccuracies in Rogers’ coverage.
Levitt mentioned, “I believe we can fulfill our commitment to hold the media accountable, especially since there are so many misleading stories circulating about the meetings we hold.” She expressed frustration over the persistent presence of false narratives originating from the White House.
She said, “Before I advise you to dismiss that New York Times piece, let’s discuss one specific falsehood from the weekend. It inaccurately portrayed a significant part of the president’s daily agenda, questioning his fitness for the role.” Levitt noted that this critique came from the same outlet and journalist known for their previous coverage of Biden.
Interestingly, Rogers had previously authored an article headlined “Biden is ‘100 percent fine'” after Biden stumbled while boarding Air Force One, which Levitt pointed out to emphasize perceived bias in the reporting.
Levitt argued, “The same media that claims Trump is unfit for office? Really? You see him almost daily; he’s the most accessible president we’ve had.” She contrasted it with Biden’s coverage, referencing another article where Biden was declared healthy after his first medical exam in office.
Despite inquiries, the New York Times did not respond for comments on the situation.
Rogers recently reported that an analysis of Trump’s schedule showed he engaged in fewer public events compared to his first term. There were also claims that he looked as if he dozed off during a recent session in the Oval Office.
Trump, in his own defense, celebrated what he claimed was a landslide victory in the 2024 elections, asserting achievements including resolving multiple conflicts and rekindling respect for America globally. He went on to criticize the Times, saying, “The failed New York Times creeps are at it again. Despite everything I’ve accomplished, they suggest I’m running out of energy, which is utterly unfounded.” He even called out Rogers personally, saying she was “ugly inside and out.”
Trump recognized that energy levels do decline over time, but he asserted that after recent medical assessments, such concerns were irrelevant for him at this moment.
The New York Times defended its reporting, stating that Trump’s criticisms and personal attacks do not alter the validity of their findings. They maintained that their coverage is grounded in factual reporting and emphasized the importance of a free and independent press.
