President Donald Trump criticized NBC as “one of the worst networks on television” during a press conference, only to be reminded by a reporter of his years-long association with the network that helped launch his public career.
The exchange occurred on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, during an Oval Office meeting with Irish Prime Minister Micheál Martin. When asked by an NBC reporter about “inconsistency” in his economic agenda, particularly regarding his “on and off” tariffs that have reportedly caused stock market instability and business uncertainty, Trump quickly dismissed the premise.
“There is no inconsistency,” Trump responded firmly, before directing his criticism at the network. “Only with NBC, which is one of the worst networks on television, by the way.”
The NBC reporter countered with a pointed reminder: “It was your home for a long time.”
Indeed, Trump’s relationship with NBC spans nearly two decades, most notably as host of the reality business competition show “The Apprentice,” which aired on the network from 2004 to 2017. The program is widely credited with helping transform Trump into a household name and laying groundwork for his eventual political career.
Rather than acknowledge this history, Trump ignored the reporter’s comment and continued defending his economic policies, insisting he has “the right to adjust” and that he’s simply being “flexible” rather than inconsistent.
This isn’t the first time Trump has taken aim at NBC and its parent company Comcast. He has previously accused the networks of “one-sided and vicious coverage” and referred to them as the “enemy of the people.” Trump has also threatened to investigate Comcast over its coverage of him, prompting criticism from various commentators and organizations who view such threats as potential abuse of presidential power.
“The Apprentice,” co-produced by Trump and Mark Burnett, featured contestants competing for a one-year, $250,000 starting contract to manage one of Trump’s businesses. The show portrayed Trump as a decisive and successful business leader, though reports indicate his on-screen persona was heavily edited to make him appear more articulate and successful than in reality.
The program frequently showcased Trump’s properties, products, and brand, effectively serving as a long-running advertisement for the Trump business empire. Trump’s on-screen assistants and advisors also gained fame through their appearances on the show.
Despite the show’s declining ratings in later years, “The Apprentice” remained an important vehicle for Trump’s public image until shortly before he entered politics. The show faced increasing criticism during Trump’s presidential campaign, especially after he began publicly questioning President Obama’s birthplace.
Trump’s history with NBC stands in stark contrast to his current criticism of the network. The relationship became increasingly strained during his political career, with Trump often singling out NBC and its cable news counterpart MSNBC for what he perceives as unfair coverage.
In recent developments, Amazon Prime Video announced it has begun streaming “The Apprentice,” potentially introducing a new generation of viewers to the show that helped cement Trump’s public persona before his entry into politics. Mark Burnett, the show’s producer, reportedly remains one of Trump’s closest allies.
Trump’s criticism of media outlets extends beyond NBC. He has also targeted other networks and publications that he believes have covered him unfavorably, including CNN, the Associated Press, The New York Times, and even Fox News in some instances. His administration has taken various actions to limit media access and coverage, including blocking reporters from covering events and ousting journalists from Pentagon spaces.
Experts suggest these actions reflect what they call a “fundamental disrespect for the principles underlying a democratic commitment to a free press” and risk creating self-censorship among reporters. Trump has also threatened to revoke broadcast licenses and has sought to punish journalists for not using Trump-mandated terminology, specifically the Associated Press.
The recent clash with the NBC reporter highlights the ongoing tension between Trump and media organizations that he perceives as critical of his administration, even those with which he has had significant professional relationships in the past.
