CNN is receiving criticism on social media as users highlight discrepancies in the network’s portrayal of the economy during President Donald Trump’s and former President Joe Biden’s tenures.
This follows a post shared by CNN on X regarding inflation under Trump, which Daily Wire senior editor Cabot Phillips utilized to illustrate different perceptions of inflation between the two administrations.
In March 2023, CNN tweeted that “US inflation is still high, but falling,” mentioning the consumer price index had dropped to 6% from 6.4% in January.
Fast forward to December 2026, CNN also noted, “The U.S. inflation rate remained at 2.7%,” pointing out ongoing cost-of-living issues.
Due to these contrasting narratives, Phillips shared a side-by-side comparison of how CNN reported on 6% inflation during Biden’s presidency versus 2.7% inflation under Trump. The post quickly gained traction, with many, including White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt, criticizing what they perceived as bias.
Leavitt referenced Phillips’ post, tagging it with “CNN Fake News.”
In a similar vein, Lake Kali, the acting CEO of the U.S. Agency for Global Media, remarked, “How Fake News Works in One Photo.” Emmanuel Rincon, a political consultant, also pointed out the switch in tone, noting that 6% inflation was seen as acceptable under Biden while 2% was considered poor under Trump.
Evelio Silvera, a market commentator, rebuked CNN for its inconsistent reporting style depending on the administration, suggesting that people are simply fed up with being misled.
Another X user sarcastically remarked on the widespread distrust in mainstream media. Meanwhile, Ohio Republican Party Chairman Alex Triantafilou pointed out the difference in CNN’s coverage of Biden’s inflation challenges versus Trump’s efforts to manage it, highlighting the reason why many disregard the channel.
CNN has yet to respond to requests for comments regarding the situation.
