White House Press Secretary Denies Trump Has Been Falsely Called Racist

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White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt appeared stunned when a reporter asked her for examples of President Donald Trump falsely being called a racist. Leavitt vowed to provide a 'plethora of examples' of 'radical Democrats' accusing Trump of racism, claiming the president has 'absolutely' been falsely smeared as a racist.

Why it matters

The exchange highlights the ongoing debate over whether Trump has been unfairly labeled as a racist, with the White House defending the president's record on issues affecting the Black community.

The details

During a press briefing, a reporter asked Leavitt where or when Trump believes he has been falsely called a racist. Leavitt replied, 'You're kidding, right?' and said she would provide 'a plethora of examples' of 'radical Democrats' accusing Trump of racism over the years. Leavitt then cited Trump's upcoming Black History Month celebration, his support for historically Black colleges and universities, and his efforts to reduce the backlog of benefits for Black veterans as evidence that the president has been 'falsely called and smeared as a racist.'

• On February 18, 2026, the press briefing took place.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The White House is expected to provide examples of Trump being falsely called a racist, as Leavitt promised.