By Charles Switzer
9:54am PST, Feb 27, 2025
Trump Caught on Hot Mic Asking Fox News Host for Praise
A hot mic moment at President
Donald Trump's first cabinet meeting of his second term has sparked controversy after he was heard instructing a Fox News host to praise the event.
As the press was ushered out of the room, Trump called out to
Fox & Friends co-host
Lawrence Jones, saying, "Lawrence, say we did a great job, please. Okay? Say it was unbelievable!"
The comment was cut from the official White House feed but remained on the
Associated Press' livestream, raising concerns about the administration's handling of media coverage.
Here's what happened and how the hot mic faux pas is playing out on social media.
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White House Press Control Sparks Outrage
The incident follows the Trump administration's announcement that it would seize control of the press pool, a responsibility historically managed by the White House Correspondents Association (WHCA).
White House Press Secretary
Karoline Leavitt's decision was met with widespread criticism, including from Fox News Senior White House Correspondent
Jacqui Heinrich, who warned on X that the move concentrated power in the hands of the White House rather than the press. The change has since led to an increase in right-wing media figures being given priority access to events.
Elon Musk Dominates Cabinet Meeting as 'DOGE Czar'
Beyond Trump's hot mic moment, another standout from the cabinet meeting was
Elon Musk's overwhelming presence.
As the head of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), Musk reportedly dominated discussions, overshadowing other officials in the room. His influence has become a growing point of contention, with some questioning whether an unelected tech mogul should have such a significant role in shaping government policy.
Right-Wing Media Gains More Access
With the WHCA sidelined, conservative media figures like
Newsmax's
James Rosen and
Real America's Voice's
Brian Glenn have been added to the press pool, giving them direct access to Trump's inner circle.
The shift has led to a friendlier tone in White House press coverage, as seen in Jones' interaction with Trump. When asked about firing military officials responsible for the
Afghanistan withdrawal, Trump responded, "Well, that's a great idea… if I had his place, I'd fire every single one of them."
The exchange has fueled accusations that the new press arrangement is designed to bolster the administration's narrative.
Social Media Reactions to Trump's Hot Mic Moment
The hot mic clip quickly went viral, with reactions pouring in across social media. Journalist
Aaron Rupar posted, "Trump literally begging for good coverage. The most 'strong leader' thing I've ever seen."
Meanwhile, conservative influencer
Jack Posobiec defended Trump, writing, "What's wrong with wanting the
truth to be told? The media lies about him daily."
Others pointed out the irony of Fox News receiving Trump's direct orders for coverage, with one user commenting, "This proves that Fox is state-run media now. Just say the words, Lawrence!"
The moment has only further intensified scrutiny over Trump's media strategy in his second term.
