Trump criticizes CNN's Kaitlan Collins as 'Stupid and Nasty' for questioning his new ballroom plans in weekend Truth Social rant.

Collins, 33, who serves as CNNs Chief White House Correspondent and hosts The Source with Kaitlan Collins, became the latest target when she questioned the rising costs of the high-profile project. Trump responded on Truth Social, writing: Caitlin Collin's of Fake News CNN, always Stupid and Nasty, asked me why the new Ballroom was costing more money than originally thought one year ago. I said because it is going to be double the size, and the quality of finishes and interiors has been brought to the highest level. Also, the column SPAN has been substantially increased for purposes of viewing.

He defended the project, claiming it remains under budget and ahead of schedule, despite earlier reports suggesting otherwise. Trump added that the renovation, initially projected at $200 million, now has an estimated cost of $300 million and is being funded entirely by private donations, including his own contributions.

Interestingly, and seldom reported, there are no taxpayer dollars involved. It is being fully paid for by private donations. FAKE NEWS CNN, and the guy who runs the whole corrupt operation that owns it, is one of the worst in the business, Trump wrote.

The White House began demolishing the East Wing in October to make room for the ballroom, sparking criticism from lawmakers concerned about oversight and preservation of historical features.

Trumps attack on Collins is part of a broader pattern of verbal clashes with female journalists. On Thanksgiving, he called CBS News White House correspondent Nancy Cordes stupid when questioned about vetting Afghan evacuees admitted under the Biden administrations Operation Allies Welcome program.

Earlier, Trump insulted The New York Times Katie Rogers on social media, commenting negatively on her appearance, and two weeks prior, he had scolded Bloombergs Catherine Lucey during questions about the Epstein emails, prompting Collins to defend Lucey publicly.

Author: Grace Ellison