Dana Bash says CNN 'doesn't hate our country' in pushback at Trump's criticism but fails miserably

WASHINGTON, DC: CNN anchor Dana Bash didn’t hold back after President Donald Trump accused the network of suppressing news of the decrease in migrant border crossings under his administration out of hatred for the United States on Monday, April 14. 

The exchange took place during an Oval Office sit-down between Trump and El Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele. When Bukele questioned why the American media wasn’t giving more attention to the administration’s deportation efforts, Trump turned his attention to the reporters in the room.

Dana Bash responds on-air after Donald Trump accuses CNN of 'hating' the country

"Well, they get out … but the fake news," Donald Trump said, gesturing toward the reporters in the room. He added, "CNN over there, doesn’t want to put them out because they don’t like putting out good numbers … because I think they hate our country. It’s a shame, really."

Moments later, CNN anchor Bash addressed Trump’s statement head-on.

"I just want to say for the record… CNN does not hate our country. That should go without saying. I’ve been here for 32 years. And I see a rhetorical device in him trying to say such a thing. That said, I want to focus on the news that we heard," she said. 

Trump has frequently accused CNN of unfair coverage, labeling it “fake news.”

Later during the press session, Trump again took aim at CNN when questioned by the network's chief White House correspondent Kaitlan Collins. 

Dana Bash's attempt at defending CNN against Donald Trump's criticism falls flat

While Dana Bash pushed back against Donald Trump's claim that CNN "hates" the US, netizens, especially the president's supporters, weren't having it. 

One sarcastically wrote, “Sure, you just want to destroy our freedoms, crush the middle class, and turn us into a one-party Democrat-run country. Other than that, you love America!” Another added, “Yes CNN does hate the USA.”

A person said, “The fact that she's desperately trying to refute that statement is hilarious,” while someone else stated, “CNN: ‘We do NOT hate America’ — also CNN: (adds clips criticizing the country).”

“Been here 32 years and not once reported the facts or truth either. You’re a joke CNN. We all laugh at you daily. Look at your ratings. They don’t lie,” another comment read. 

“She didn't say they loved their country, either," an individual remarked. 

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