Trump says 'I don’t like young, handsome men', leaves CNN anchor stumped on live TV

WASHINGTON,DC: An off-the-cuff remark by President Donald Trump during a Thursday, February 19, morning speech prompted a visibly startled reaction from anchor Sara Sidner as CNN aired the event live.

The moment unfolded while Trump addressed an audience at an event promoting his newly branded 'Donald J. Trump Institute of Peace' where he spoke about his Board of Peace initiative.

According to reports, pro-Palestinian demonstrators gathered across the street, holding signs and shouting criticism as the president delivered his remarks.

Trump says he doesn't like 'handsome men'

CNN cut into the speech during Thursday’s broadcast of 'CNN News Central', with Sidner joined by co-anchors John Berman and Kate Bolduan.

As Trump recognized foreign dignitaries in attendance, including Paraguay’s president, he veered into a characteristic riff.

“He’s a great guy. They’re all great. But I was very proud of it,” Trump said. “President Peña of Paraguay is here. President. President, thank you very much.”

Then came the line that triggered the on-air reaction. “Young, handsome guy. It’s always nice to be young and handsome. Doesn’t mean we have to like you,” Trump continued. “I don’t like young, handsome men.”

“What?!” Sidner exclaimed, her microphone catching the response. Trump quickly added, “Women, I like. Men, I don’t have any interest.”

Berman pivoted the coverage back to the event’s stated purpose, saying, “Right. President Trump is speaking to his Board of Peace. This is the organization he founded first to help rebuild Gaza.”

Trump asserts goals for 'Board of Peace'

The exchange was one of several unscripted moments in what was otherwise a wide-ranging speech.

Trump riffed as he introduced various leaders and spoke about the mission of his Board of Peace, which he described as an entity aimed at overseeing and strengthening international institutions.

At one point, he addressed concerns that his initiative might conflict with the United Nations.

“The Board of Peace is going to almost be looking over the United Nations and making sure it runs properly,” Trump said.

"Every dollar spent is an investment in stability. We want to have a harmonious Middle East", he added.

“But we’re going to strengthen up the United Nations. We’re going to make sure its facilities are good if they need help, and they need help, money wise, we can help them money wise. And we’re going to make sure the United Nations is viable.”