Former President Donald Trump is set to appear on a CNN town hall event tonight at 8:00 PM ET, where he will face adversarial questioning from the network he once called “fake news.” Trump’s appearance comes a day after a jury found him liable for sexual abuse against writer E. Jean Carroll, and he is likely to be pressed on that verdict and previous charges from Manhattan D.A. Alvin Bragg regarding payments to a porn actress. The town hall promises to be a dramatic event that will likely draw a large audience.
It remains to be seen whether Trump will continue his attacks on CNN or adopt a more conciliatory tone. Before Tuesday’s verdict, the ex-president posted a statement in which he claimed that CNN was “rightfully desperate” to increase its ratings by featuring him.
“They made me a deal I couldn’t refuse!!!” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Could be the beginning of a New & Vibrant CNN, with no more Fake News, or it could turn into a disaster for all, including me. Let’s see what happens? Wednesday Night at 8:00!!!”
There is speculation that CNN is seeking to reposition itself closer to the center under its current CEO and chairman Chris Licht, while Trump has the incentive to reach beyond his base and broaden his appeal.
One of the main issues to watch will be what Trump has to say about the E. Jean Carroll verdict. Trump has been quick to dismiss the charges as a “witch hunt” and “bogus case” targeting him. However, he may choose to repeat previous attacks on Carroll’s character, which could repel female voters and expose him to accusations of defamation. CNN will likely have to push back against any such allegations from Trump, or risk being seen as complicit in his behavior.
Finally, it remains to be seen whether Trump’s main target will be President Biden or Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Trump has recently been attacking DeSantis with increasing frequency, calling him “DeSanctimonious” and declaring him “a total flameout” who is “dropping like a rock in the Polls.” Trump will want to keep the heat on DeSantis, hoping to snuff out his rival’s candidacy early.
Trump’s appearance on CNN promises to be explosive and controversial, with the potential to shape the political landscape in the coming weeks and months.