Trump Praises CNN’s Scott Jennings During 100-Day Rally Speech in Michigan
During a lively rally in Michigan celebrating his first 100 days back in office, President Donald Trump gave an unexpected shout-out to CNN political commentator Scott Jennings—calling him onstage to applause from the crowd and poking fun at the challenges of being a Trump supporter on mainstream news.
Speaking to supporters just outside Detroit on Tuesday night, Trump celebrated what he described as early wins in his second term. While recognizing members of his team and vocal allies, he turned his attention to Jennings.
“You know, we’ve got a guy here who I don’t know personally, but he’s always defending me on CNN—and doing a great job,” Trump said. “But he has to walk a fine line or they’ll fire him. I told him, ‘You’re amazing. You take it right to the edge.’ And he really does.”
Trump continued, grinning, “He can’t go too far, but if he did what he really wanted to do—well, he’d be out. But I think he’s terrific. Scott Jennings, where are you? Come on up!”
Jennings took the stage as the crowd cheered. Trump quipped, “CNN, this is the end of Scott. Who cares? We’ll take care of you, Scott. You’ve been great.”
Jennings played into the moment, joking, “Michigan! We flew in today and I said, ‘Look at these farms. I’ve got to get a farm in Michigan—because when you own as many libs as I do, you need somewhere to put them!’” The crowd erupted in laughter and applause.
Just the night before, Jennings appeared on CNN’s Laura Coates Live, where he called immigration Trump’s “best issue,” even as the network’s own polling showed 54% disapproval of Trump’s handling of it.
After Jennings left the stage, Trump continued highlighting what he framed as key accomplishments: shutting down the southern border, expanding deportation efforts, and pushing for new trade deals—all key promises from his 2024 campaign.
The rally marked Trump’s latest effort to energize his base while pushing back against media criticism—this time with a little help from one of CNN’s own.