Scott Bessent Criticizes NY Times at Newspaper’s Own Summit

During Wednesdays DealBook Summit, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent openly criticized The New York Times, predicting its decline while accusing the publication of biased reporting. Speaking directly to DealBook founder Andrew Ross Sorkin, Bessent claimed the paper had supported a cover-up of President Joe Bidens health while spreading completely false narratives about President Donald Trump.

In the live discussion, Sorkin asked whether this represents a new normal for media coverage. Bessent dismissed the notion, saying, Theres no new normal, and noted that although he no longer reads the Times, the stories he receives demonstrate that the outlet has become a fever swamp. He added that in decades to come, the newspaper would no longer be seen as a definitive source of record.

Bessent specifically criticized a recent article portraying Trump as slowing down, claiming the reporting was inaccurate and exaggerated. I read this piece, claiming President Trumps mental capacity is declining. Its completely false, he stated, citing his own experience with the presidents communications as evidence.

The Times article referenced shorter workdays, fewer public appearances, and instances where Trump appeared to nod off during meetings. Trump himself denounced the coverage as a hit piece and personally attacked the reporter involved.

Bessent further contended that the Times ignored Trumps active schedule while exaggerating his supposed decline, contrasting it with Bidens less visible Cabinet interactions. Where was The New York Times when we had a three-hour Cabinet meeting just yesterday? Bessent asked, questioning the papers coverage of presidential fitness and the practical implications for invoking the 25th Amendment.

Author: Chloe Ramirez