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Trump Refuses to Let CNN’s Jim Acosta Ask Question: ‘You’re Fake News!’

‘PILE OF GARBAGE’

“Your organization is terrible,” he shouted at reporter.

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Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

President-elect Donald Trump’s Wednesday press conference devolved into a shouting match between himself and CNN White House correspondent Jim Acosta. Trump yelled, “You are fake news!” as Acosta tried to press him to answer a question. The exchange was prompted by Trump calling BuzzFeed a “failing pile of garbage.” He said, “I think they’re going to suffer the consequences. They already are.” He added, “As far as CNN going out of their way to build it up... It’s a disgrace what took place. It’s a disgrace, and I think they ought to apologize to start.” Acosta said: “Since you’re attacking us, can you give us a question?... Since you are attacking our news organization—can you give us a chance?” Trump responded: “Not you. Your organization is terrible.” He continued to interrupt the reporter: “Quiet. Don’t be rude. Don’t be rude. No, I’m not going to give you a question. I’m not going to give you a question.” Trump began the conference by saying he respects most news organizations, with the exception of BuzzFeed. According to reporters on scene, incoming press secretary Sean Spicer confronted Acosta after the press conference and angrily pointed at him.