Trump insults female reporter as 'ugly, both inside and out' after critical article

On Wednesday, former President Donald Trump labeled a New York Times journalist as unattractive, inside and out following an article addressing his health, age, and perceived signs of fatigue. Posting on Truth Social, Trump emphasized the energy and effort he dedicates to his policies, stating, I have never worked so hard in my life.

He criticized the newspaper, writing, The soon-to-collapse New York Times published a story suggesting I am losing energy, despite clear evidence to the contrary. They know this is incorrect, as is nearly everything they report on me, including election outcomes, which are intentionally negative.

Trump also singled out New York Times White House correspondent Katie Rogers, calling her a third-rate journalist assigned only to write negative things about me. He added, There will be a time when my energy declines, as happens to everyone, but with a recent perfect physical and cognitive examwhich I acedthat moment has not arrived.

He concluded the post with, GOD BLESS AMERICA & MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN.

The New York Times defended Rogerss reporting. Spokesperson Nicole Taylor told The Hill, Our reporting is accurate, based on firsthand accounts. Personal attacks and name-calling do not change that. Journalists like Katie Rogers demonstrate how an independent press helps Americans understand their leaders and government.

The article, co-written with Dylan Freedman, highlights Trump, 79, confronting the challenges of aging in office. They referenced a November 6 Oval Office moment when Trumps eyelids drooped, and he appeared to nod off briefly. The Times also noted a lighter schedule for public events and domestic trips during his second term, with appearances usually occurring between noon and 5 p.m.

Trump has consistently defended his stamina by comparing himself to President Biden, whom he has labeled Sleepy Joe. The Times writers remarked, Trump, 79, is the oldest person elected president. To pre-empt criticism, he often contrasts himself with Biden, 82, whose aides manage appearances to conceal frailty.

Trumps criticism of Rogers continues a longstanding pattern of attacking media figures since his 2015 campaign, often dismissing unfavorable reporting as fake news. Earlier this month, he reportedly called another reporter quiet, piggy aboard Air Force One during a question about Jeffrey Epstein-related files.

Following his return to the White House and amid ongoing coverage of presidential health, Trump recently underwent an MRI as part of his routine exam. When questioned, he said he had no idea what they analyzed. In July, additional tests were conducted for mild leg swelling and hand bruising. His doctor attributed these issues to chronic venous insufficiency and minor soft tissue damage from frequent handshakes.

Author’s Analysis: Trump’s Media Attacks and Health Narrative

Former President Donald Trump’s recent statements targeting a New York Times journalist continue a well-established pattern of confronting media criticism personally. By labeling the reporter as “unattractive, inside and out” and dismissing coverage of his health and age, Trump reinforces his strategy of discrediting unfavorable reporting rather than engaging with the content of the articles.

Trump’s emphasis on his energy and recent medical exams serves a dual purpose: to counter narratives about age-related fatigue and to draw a direct contrast with President Biden. His public statements highlight a carefully managed portrayal of stamina, even as reporting notes lighter schedules and observable signs of tiredness during official events.

The New York Times’ defense of its reporting underscores the ongoing tension between independent journalism and political figures seeking to control public perception. Accurate, firsthand accounts remain central to media accountability, regardless of personal attacks.

Overall, this episode illustrates both Trump’s consistent use of personal attacks against journalists and the broader political dynamics surrounding presidential health, age, and media scrutiny.

Sources:

• Trump calls female reporter ‘ugly, both inside and out’ over ‘hit piece’