CNN's Kaitlan Collins Responds to Trump's 'Smile' Remark

Collins reacts to the President's comment during a White House press conference.

Published on Feb. 21, 2026

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During an appearance on 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert,' CNN reporter Kaitlan Collins discussed a moment at the White House when President Donald Trump told her, 'I don't think I've ever seen you smile.' Collins reflected on the President's remark and the dynamics between the media and the administration.

Why it matters

The exchange between Collins and Trump highlights the ongoing tension between the media and the White House, as well as the challenges journalists face in maintaining professionalism and objectivity when interacting with political figures who may make personal comments.

The details

At a White House press conference, President Trump told CNN's Kaitlan Collins, 'I don't think I've ever seen you smile.' Collins later appeared on 'The Late Show with Stephen Colbert' and discussed the President's remark, noting that she tries to maintain a neutral expression while reporting in order to avoid any perception of bias.

  • The incident occurred during a White House press conference on an unspecified date.

The players

Kaitlan Collins

A CNN reporter who covers the White House.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States.

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What they’re saying

“I don't think I've ever seen you smile.”

— Donald Trump (CNN)

“I try to maintain a neutral expression while reporting in order to avoid any perception of bias.”

— Kaitlan Collins, CNN Reporter (The Late Show with Stephen Colbert)

The takeaway

The exchange between Kaitlan Collins and President Trump highlights the ongoing challenges journalists face in maintaining professionalism and objectivity when interacting with political figures, especially in high-tension environments like the White House press room.