Trump Spars with Reporter Over Wealth, Criticizes Australia
Former President Donald Trump engaged in a heated exchange with a reporter from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation (ABC) on Tuesday regarding his personal wealth and business dealings since leaving office. The confrontation occurred on the White House lawn and also touched upon his upcoming meeting with Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.
The Question of Trump's Wealth
The journalist from ABC questioned Trump about his increased personal wealth, asking, "How much wealthier are you now than when you returned to the White House?". Trump responded that he didn't know, claiming that most of his deals were made before his presidency and that his children are currently managing his business.
Ballroom Boast and Business Activity
Trump then boasted about constructing a new ballroom at the White House, stating, "That is going to be the greatest ballroom anywhere in the world... I think it'll cost $250 million." The reporter followed up by asking if it was appropriate for a president to be involved in so much business activity, particularly concerning recent reporting regarding a potential $5 billion crypto venture linked to his family.
Accusations and Tensions
Trump, before again stating his children ran the business, turned to the reporter and asked where he was from. Upon learning he was from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Trump accused the reporter of "hurting Australia" and threatened to mention the incident to Prime Minister Albanese during their upcoming meeting. Trump added, "You set a very bad tone," and cut off the reporter's attempts to follow up.
Upcoming Meeting with Albanese
The exchange confirmed an upcoming meeting between Trump and Anthony Albanese, set to take place during the UN General Assembly in New York. This marks their first confirmed face-to-face talks, although Albanese stated that they will be at a reception and "various forums." Discussions are expected to include topics like the Aukus nuclear submarines agreement review and Australian defense spending.
Clash Over Free Speech
Separate to the wealth and business questions, Trump also engaged in another tense exchange with ABC News Chief Washington Correspondent Jonathan Karl, where he seemed to threaten him for asking about free speech. Trump appeared to take umbrage after being questioned about his allies supporting the idea of hate speech being free speech.
