The White House recently criticized CNN, labeling it a “chicken news network” due to its reluctance to book deputy chief of staff for policy, Stephen Miller, for an interview. CNN, however, quickly responded, stating it would be open to featuring administration officials in the future if the need arises.
This week, Miller revealed that the White House had reached out to CNN, offering to discuss any topic at any time on their programming. On Thursday, White House communications director Stephen Chan took to social media to amplify this issue, claiming that CNN’s refusal was a sign of its contempt for informed dialogue.
Chan tweeted: “Day 3: The White House again allows Stephen Miller @StephenM to appear on CNN for Day 3 (any time, any show, any topic). They declined, probably because they fear Stephen will educate them and denounce fake news. CNN = Chicken News Network.”
In a public statement, CNN clarified its stance, saying that while they welcome administration representatives, decisions about what stories to cover are guided by daily news priorities. They expressed eagerness to have Miller back on air when appropriate.
The criticism from the White House is not new; President Trump and his administration have frequently mocked CNN. Earlier this week, Trump expressed that CNN should rethink its leadership and considers the idea of selling the network.
“I think the people who ran CNN for so long should be ashamed,” Trump remarked to reporters. He suggested that transitioning ownership could help alleviate the network’s perceived issues, citing misinformation as a major concern.
Meanwhile, Miller last appeared on CNN in early October, where he engaged in a contentious exchange regarding various national issues.
