Trump Agrees to CNN Interview Amid Tapper Criticism

Donald Trump agreed to a future, wide-ranging interview with CNN host Jake Tapper during a phone appearance on State of the Union on July 12, 2026. Trump originally joined the program to discuss the death of Senator Lindsey Graham, whom he praised for his defense of Brett Kavanaugh. During the call, Trump declined to answer questions about recent U.S. military strikes against Iran, stating he would not discuss the matter out of respect for the late senator.

During the exchange, Trump remarked that he was trying to have CNN go on a normal path. Tapper responded that he was already on a normal path and invited the president back for a more extensive sit-down. The comments regarding the network's direction follow the Department of Justice's approval of Paramount Skydance's acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery, which would place CNN under the leadership of CEO David Ellison.

The interview drew widespread criticism from journalists and commentators who described Tapper's performance as pathetic and embarrassing. Critics alleged that Tapper failed to provide sufficient pushback while Trump dictated the conversation and avoided political topics.