Karoline Leavitt Faces Backlash Over Dismissive Response

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt is under scrutiny following her dismissive remarks during a recent exchange with a reporter from the Huffington Post. The incident, which occurred on March 14, 2024, began when reporter S.V. Dáte inquired about the suggestion of Budapest, Hungary, as the venue for former President Donald Trump‘s next meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin. Dáte specifically asked if Trump was aware of the city’s historical significance, referencing a 1994 agreement wherein Russia pledged not to invade Ukraine if it relinquished its nuclear arsenal.

In an unexpected turn, Leavitt’s response to Dáte’s question was notably flippant, stating, “Your mom did.” This reaction prompted immediate criticism from various quarters, highlighting concerns over professionalism in the White House press office.

On March 18, 2024, Leavitt revisited the exchange by posting a screenshot of their conversation on X, previously known as Twitter. In her post, she accused Dáte of being a “far left hack who nobody takes seriously,” further questioning his qualifications as a journalist. “It’s funny to me that you actually consider yourself a journal,” she wrote, seemingly without reviewing her message for errors.

Dáte responded shortly after, asking, “Feel better now? Now can you answer the question? Please and thank you.” As of now, Leavitt has not replied to Dáte’s follow-up, nor has she addressed an email from the Daily Beast reiterating his initial question. Instead, White House Deputy Press Secretary Abigail Jackson engaged with Dáte using a meme, which further fueled discussions about the appropriateness of the official responses.

The incident drew widespread condemnation on social media. Critics, including former CNBC reporter John Harwood, suggested that Leavitt’s response was more fitting for someone much younger. Influencer Brian Krassenstein sarcastically asked, “What are you, 11?” while his brother expressed concern over the maturity level of the current administration, commenting on the impression that the country might be “run by 2nd graders.”

The organization Republicans Against Trump urged Leavitt to respond directly to the question, emphasizing the importance of accountability. Journalist Mehdi Hasan, editor-in-chief of Zeteo, remarked on social media, “Every time you think they can’t sink lower,” reflecting the sentiment shared by many regarding Leavitt’s conduct.

On the subject of professionalism, host Ayman Mohyeldin of MSNBC’s The Weekend characterized Leavitt’s remarks as “classy all around,” criticizing the tone set by those in high office. He pointed out that taxpayer dollars support such behavior, calling for a higher standard in governmental communication.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how Leavitt and the White House will address the backlash. The importance of maintaining decorum in public discourse, especially from officials representing the highest levels of government, continues to resonate among constituents and observers alike.