Donald Trump has once again backed out of a planned interview with a major news network, canceling an appearance on CNBC’s “Squawk Box.” The interview, which had not been announced in advance, was confirmed by co-anchor Joe Kernen.
“Well, Trump canceled, and he was going to come on,” Kernen revealed on-air, confirming that the former President was expected to join the show. Kernen also mentioned that Vice President Kamala Harris had been invited to appear, but she “wasn’t coming on” either. He added, jokingly, “She could come on, and we could say we offered it to Trump’s camp, but they’re not coming.”
A Trump campaign official cited a scheduling conflict as the reason for pulling out of the CNBC interview. The official noted that Trump would instead be traveling to Michigan later in the week.
This marks the second time in October that Trump has canceled an interview with a mainstream media outlet. Earlier this month, he pulled out of an interview with CBS News’ “60 Minutes.” Instead, He has opted to appear almost exclusively on conservative platforms, including Fox News, Newsmax, and Real America’s Voice, limiting his exposure to “fair” media outlets.
Trump’s decision to avoid mainstream media comes amid Harris’ flurry of interviews and media appearances. The Vice President is scheduled to sit down with Bret Baier on Fox News, marking her first interview on the network. Harris has also been active on other non-traditional platforms as she seeks to engage with undecided voters in the campaign’s final weeks.
Charles Kretchmer Lutvak, a Harris campaign spokesperson, took to social media to criticize Trump’s decision, saying, “Trump bailed on the debate because Kamala Harris would hold him accountable (again),” and added, “Trump bailed on Joe Kernan [sic] because he can’t even talk to his best friend on TV.”
As the election draws closer, both candidates focus on reaching swing voters. With no further debates scheduled, both Harris and Trump have turned to unconventional media outlets to extend their reach.
Harris has agreed to participate in a town hall with Charlamagne Tha God and other public figures to discuss issues relevant to younger voters. Trump is expected to host a town hall on Univision later this week to discuss issues pertinent to the Hispanic community.
