Overview
- During a Jan. 11 gaggle on Air Force One, President Trump said, “I’m looking for something to grab, and it’s not going to be Karoline,” as the plane hit turbulence returning from Mar-a-Lago.
- The remark came as reporters asked about Venezuela and a possible meeting with María Corina Machado, but the press pool did not pursue the comment and continued with policy questions.
- A short clip of the exchange posted on X spread widely, drawing criticism that the line was inappropriate as well as defenses that it was a joke.
- Coverage frames the episode as part of an ongoing pattern, referencing earlier instances in which Trump commented on Leavitt’s appearance and speaking style, including the “machine gun” lips remarks in October and August.
- Reports noted Leavitt appeared momentarily taken aback before smiling, and outlets highlighted her status as the youngest White House press secretary.