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CNN anchor Kaitlin Collins has admitted that President Trump is more open with the media than his predecessors. In an appearance on the “Trading Secrets” podcast on Monday, Collins spoke to host Jason Tartick about her experiences covering the White House. She told Tartick that covering Trump was different than covering other presidents and discussed how his approach has changed the dynamic between the presidency and the press.
Collins noted how Trump’s experience in the public arena shaped his approach to the press in ways that differed from those of other presidents. “Trump embraced the media,” Collins said. “He did it for decades as like this New York mogul, and so he just had a different approach to the press and always has long before taking office.”
The CNN correspondent also discussed how Trump differs from former presidents. “Most politicians are not very press-savvy. It kind of depends on who it is,” Collins said.
Although she did not cover the Obama presidency, she noted that veteran reporters observed a stark contrast between President Obama and President Trump, particularly in their handling of the media.
Collins said reporters who covered Obama told her he did not respond to shouted questions from around the room. “It wasn’t his thing. He would have his moments with world leaders, and then you would leave the Oval,” Collins said. “Trump kind of upended that when he came into the White House.”
Collins also addressed Trump’s unique approach to fielding questions and how reporters covering Trump must always be prepared for anything. She told Tartick she tries to keep a running list of questions for the moments when Trump spontaneously turns to the press after an event and takes questions for an extended period of time.
President Trump has repeatedly clashed with Collins in the past and directed criticism at her network, describing CNN as “fake news.” However, Collins noted that despite any friction with Trump, she has personally called him for comment in the past and he has responded with statements immediately.
Despite any past conflict with President Trump, Collins expressed appreciation for his willingness to be open with the press. “You can disagree about questions and briefings and whatnot,” Collins said. “Press access is key and every administration, I think, should protect that.”