Journalists rely on telephone conversations to gather information and quotes that add depth to their reports. While it’s not unusual for them to reach out to sources via phone, it is quite exceptional for reporters to ring up and get immediate responses from the President of the United States. President Donald Trump, known for coining the term “fake news” and often criticizing the media, surprisingly offers such unfettered access to his personal cell, often resulting in spontaneous interviews.
Trump’s practice of personally engaging with journalists seems to contradict his ongoing disputes with the media. Just recently, his legal team threatened lawsuits against CNN and The New York Times for coverage on the U.S. government’s assessment following an airstrike on Iran’s nuclear sites. Nonetheless, on June 21, Trump conducted phone interviews with Jonathan Karl of ABC News, Kristen Welker at NBC News, Steve Holland from Reuters, Barak Ravid of Axios, and Fox News’ Bret Baier and Sean Hannity as detailed in an independent database.
An exchange with The Wall Street Journal’s Josh Dawsey the next day was notable, lasting a mere 38 seconds, yet providing the paper with a presidential comment to include in its report about the bombing. “I find it utterly remarkable,” noted Ari Fleischer, previously President George W. Bush’s press secretary. He added that it’s a typical Trump move that’s untraditional but entirely consistent with how the president functions.
The spontaneous interviews underscore Trump’s willingness to engage directly with the media. In one instance, journalist Michael Scherer found himself speaking with Trump after reaching out on a Saturday morning, despite previously being declined an interview for an Atlantic magazine piece. Scherer recounted that Trump not only entertained his questions but did so with unexpected graciousness.
The Atlantic later analyzed how crucial the phone remains in maintaining direct communication lines with the president, despite potential security breaches such as those rumored to stem from Chinese espionage efforts. Communicating with the press — and by connection, the general public — forms a vital component of a president’s responsibilities. Both previous and current presidents structured these interactions more formally, yet Trump often breaks away from such conventions.
White House Communications Director Steven Cheung highlighted that President Trump’s direct interactions exemplify his transparency. Cheung asserted, “President Trump is the most transparent president in history, and his willingness to combat Fake News media outlets benefits the American public.”
Trump’s frequent and unpredictable phone interviews likely complicate his staff’s role if they’re not present during calls or lacking a briefing afterward. Yet this hands-on approach remains a fundamental characteristic of his presidency, according to Fleischer. Reporters like ABC’s Jonathan Karl have secured multiple interviews with Trump in June alone, describing the access as incomparable despite providing only brief quotes at times.
Even when public discord exists, Trump might take calls. NBC’s Yamiche Alcindor, who had publicly clashed with Trump in the past, managed to speak to him about the recent Iranian bombing, noting his description of the day as a notable success for America and the Middle East.
These actions unfold as Trump continues his broader attack against perceived media bias, evidenced by attempts to cut funding for NPR and PBS and restricting particular press access. Meanwhile, influential media watchdogs acknowledge that a significant portion of Trump’s interviews during his second presidency term lacks the public accessibility witnessed during his first term.
The scarcity of transcripts and videos of Trump’s calls signifies a strategic shift with more frequent, informal phone interactions. Michael Scherer remains careful about utilizing Trump’s personal number, recognizing the responsibility it entails. However, as long as he maintains the number, reporters seem poised to keep dialing in hopes of an impromptu presidential dialogue.