CNN has found itself in hot water over its starkly different portrayals of inflation figures during two distinct administrations. Recent scrutiny focuses on how the network framed December 2025’s 2.7% inflation rate under President Trump as indicative of “persistent cost of living challenges.” In contrast, it described the 6% inflation rate recorded in March 2023 under President Biden as “still high, but falling.” This inconsistency sparked a wave of criticism.
A post that went viral on X pointed out this double standard, quickly gaining traction and even catching the attention of White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, who deemed the network’s reporting as “CNN Fake News.” Conservatives rallied around this narrative, suggesting that biased media coverage is damaging public perception of their economic policies. Despite the unfavorable media portrayal, indications show that Trump’s economy remains resilient.
“US inflation is still high, but it’s falling…” read CNN’s March 2023 post, citing a 6% figure that was down from January’s 6.4%. But only months later, the same outlet reported on a lower 2.7% inflation rate and labeled it a persistent problem. Leavitt’s swift response highlights the growing frustration toward CNN’s perceived bias, as she succinctly stated, “CNN Fake News.”
Kari Lake, who serves as acting CEO of the U.S. Agency for Global Media, echoed this sentiment, remarking, “How the fake news works in one photo.” This reaction underscores discomfort within conservative circles regarding how their achievements are often overlooked or framed negatively compared to their counterparts.
Emmanuel Rincón, a political consultant, explained the disparity, saying, “For CNN, a 6% inflation rate under Biden was considered good, but a 2% inflation rate under Trump is considered bad.” This comment directly addresses the notion that the media’s narrative shifts not based on numbers, but on the individuals in power.
Market commentator Evelio Silvera added to the chorus of criticism, noting that CNN is employing “completely different tones based on who’s in office.” He strikes a nerve with the observation, “People are tired of being lied to and talked to like they’re idiots.” Such remarks reveal widespread frustration with mainstream media framing, emphasizing a demand for consistent and honest reporting.
The absurdity of the situation drew further ire from Ohio Republican Party Chairman Alex Triantafilou, who pointed out that the way CNN covers inflation figures represents a significant reason why “CNN and much of the mainstream press is to be totally ignored.” Discontent is clear among those who believe these media outlets should strive for impartiality, particularly when reporting on impactful issues like inflation.
A viral social media post encapsulated the outrage succinctly, stating, “Same outlet. Same CPI report. Completely different tone based on who’s in office, not what the numbers actually show.” This fed into a broader complaint about how factual reporting is being sidelined in favor of narrative-driven journalism.
Another user reiterated the frustration, declaring, “This is fake CNN. They should not be able to call themselves a news station.” The sentiment echoed a larger disillusionment with the media landscape, where accusations of being a “propaganda machine for the democrats” are becoming more common.
The skepticism surrounding CNN’s credibility continues to grow. One comment noted, “CNN is still around. I thought when the people quit watching them that they had to shut their doors.” Such remarks indicate a belief that the network is out of touch and failing to adapt to viewers’ criticisms.
Further adding fuel to the fire, another response cynically remarked about the network’s financial backing, stating, “Too big to sue. They still receive tax money in roundabout ways.” This sentiment highlights a concern that ultra-wealthy corporations may be insulated from accountability, creating frustration for citizens looking for transparency and truth in news reporting.
Overall, the juxtaposition in CNN’s reporting poses a critical question about media ethics and the responsibility of news outlets to present information fairly and accurately. This case illustrates a growing skepticism among the public regarding how economic issues are reported and perceived based on political affiliation. With perceived biases influencing the narrative, the call for consistent journalism remains louder than ever.
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