CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins recently commended Donald Trump’s approach to media relations, recognizing his distinctive engagement style during a podcast appearance. Collins noted that the former president’s media interactions have significantly altered the dynamics within the White House.
Collins shared her insights on Jason Tartick’s “Trading Secrets” podcast on October 6, 2025, reflecting on her experiences covering the White House as both a correspondent and anchor. Her remarks highlighted Trump’s media accessibility, a sharp contrast to the often contentious relationship between the president and CNN.
During the discussion, Collins mentioned that veteran reporters who covered former President Joe Biden observed a notable difference in media engagement styles. She explained that Biden rarely responded to shouted questions, favoring formal settings with world leaders before dismissing the press from the Oval Office.
Collins pointed out that Trump shifted this dynamic upon taking office. She stated, “Trump embraced the media,” attributing his approach to his extensive experience as a New York businessman, which differed from politicians who typically lack media experience.
The CNN anchor mentioned that she keeps a list of potential questions for White House events due to Trump’s tendency to turn routine ceremonies into spontaneous press conferences. Collins described instances where Trump would swear someone in, then engage with reporters for as long as 45 minutes.
Collins also revealed that she has reached out directly to Trump for comments on major news stories, demonstrating an unusual level of presidential accessibility. She recounted contacting Trump directly on the day of the FBI raid at Mar-a-Lago, Florida, regarding classified documents, when her team struggled to get confirmation from law enforcement. Trump promptly sent her a statement confirming the search warrant’s execution.
Despite this accessibility, Collins and Trump have often clashed during press conferences. Trump has criticized Collins publicly, calling her a “low-rated anchor” and stating that nobody watches CNN anymore. These tensions have surfaced in various White House settings, including recent confrontations over immigration policies.
The professional relationship between Collins and Trump remains adversarial, even as she acknowledges his distinct media approach. In April 2025, during an Oval Office meeting with El Salvador President Nayib Bukele, Trump repeatedly criticized Collins while she questioned both leaders about a wrongly deported Maryland man, highlighting ongoing tensions between CNN and the administration.
Collins’ podcast remarks come as part of her broader role covering prominent political figures and contentious topics. Her interview style has attracted both praise and criticism, with some media figures questioning her journalistic approach and the fairness of her coverage.
The CNN anchor’s recognition of Trump’s media engagement marks a significant moment of professional acknowledgment across traditional partisan media lines. Her observations about Trump’s accessibility contrast with typical presidential media relations, which often rely on formal press conferences and controlled messaging.
Collins noted that many politicians struggle with media relations, highlighting Trump’s unique position in the political landscape. Her comments suggest that despite the contentious nature of their interactions, Trump’s direct engagement with the media has created unprecedented opportunities for journalistic access to presidential perspectives.
