Donald Trump sharply criticized an ABC reporter after she questioned his priorities, asking about the war in Iran and rising gas prices while he highlighted his plans to renovate parts of Washington, D.C.
ABC News correspondent Rachel Scott engaged in a tense exchange with the president on May 8 when she asked why he was focusing on construction projects in the capital during an ongoing international conflict.
“With everything happening with Iran, why concentrate on these projects right now?” she asked before being interrupted.
Trump responded, “Because I want to keep our country beautiful and safe,” before launching into a more heated reply.
The interaction took place near the Lincoln Memorial, where Trump was presenting details of his proposed changes to the city. One of the projects includes repainting the Eisenhower Executive Office Building, an effort estimated by White House staff to cost around $7.5 million.
At the same time, concerns remain about the Iran situation and increasing fuel prices across the country.
Trump argued that Washington, D.C. had become “filthy,” specifically pointing to the National Mall and its reflecting pool. He claimed cleanup crews removed “11 or 12 truckloads of garbage” from the area.
He then turned his criticism toward Scott, calling her question “stupid” and describing her as “one of the worst reporters,” while also accusing ABC of spreading “fake news.”
“Beauty helped build this country. The people made it great,” he added.
This is not the first time the two have clashed. Earlier in January, Trump criticized Scott again, saying she hadn’t asked a meaningful question in years.
The renovation plans are part of Trump’s broader effort to leave a lasting mark on the capital, though several of the proposals are facing legal challenges that could delay or block them.
During the same appearance, Trump was also asked about a proposed White House ballroom. He defended the project, saying it was related to safety needs.
While the ballroom itself is estimated to cost about $400 million, the total cost of associated upgrades has reportedly risen to as much as $1 billion.
“That includes other security-related improvements on the White House grounds,” Trump explained. “Not all of it is for the ballroom.”
He added that the ballroom portion would be privately funded.
“We’re covering the $400 million for that part ourselves,” he said. “I’m contributing along with other patriots who care about this country.”