Trump Responds to CBS News Interview Following Threats
During a recent interview with CBS News, President Donald Trump expressed strong disapproval of host Norah O’Donnell, calling her a “terrible” person. His remarks came after O’Donnell read from the manifesto of Cole Thomas Allen, a California teacher arrested for allegedly planning to harm officials at a dinner in Washington, D.C. In this manifesto, Allen labeled Trump a “rapist” and “pedophile.”
Speaking about the interview, Trump seemed frustrated when O’Donnell brought up the accusations. “I was waiting because I knew you would read it,” he remarked, labeling the interviewers as “terrible people.” He firmly denied the allegations, stating, “I’m not a rapist. I haven’t raped anyone.”
O’Donnell, possibly caught off guard, asked if Trump believed the manifesto referred to him. Trump quickly responded, apologizing and asserting, “I’m not a pedophile. You probably read some crap from a sick person.”
Continuing with the conversation, Trump maintained his innocence, accusing O’Donnell’s “friends” in the political world of being connected to sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. He reiterated his belief that not only was he innocent, but that O’Donnell’s actions were disgraceful for reading from Allen’s words.
“If you’re reading this, you should be ashamed of yourself,” Trump stated. He pushed back against the notion that the manifesto had any truth, urging O’Donnell to reconsider what she shares on air. Despite the tension, he completed the interview, albeit with his frustrations clear.
Allen shared his manifesto with family before the incident, prompting them to contact the authorities. He attempted to breach security at the Washington Hilton while armed with a shotgun, handgun, and several knives. CNN’s Wolf Blitzer reported witnessing Allen fire multiple rounds near security, describing it as a chaotic scene.
Following the incident, Trump held a press conference, commending the bravery of Secret Service members who apprehended Allen. Reports indicated that an officer was injured but was in stable condition.
