Bloomberg White House correspondent Catherine Lucey is making headlines across the country after President Donald Trump called her a “quiet piggy” during a press conference aboard Air Force One last week. The incident, which initially went largely unnoticed, has now ignited a firestorm of criticism, with journalists, media organizations, and advocacy groups condemning the president’s remarks as sexist and unprofessional.
The Incident That Went Viral
On November 18, 2025, Lucey was pressing President Trump on the upcoming release of the Jeffrey Epstein files when he interrupted her, pointed at her, and said, “quiet piggy.” The comment was captured on video and quickly resurfaced online, prompting widespread backlash. The White House later attempted to justify the outburst by blaming Lucey, but offered no evidence to support their claims.
Media and Industry Reaction
The response from the journalism community has been swift and severe. CNN’s Jake Tapper called the remark “disgusting,” while former Fox News anchor Gretchen Carlson echoed the sentiment, calling it “unacceptable.” The International Women’s Media Foundation released a statement highlighting that Trump’s appearance-based insults are part of a “longstanding pattern of trying to silence female reporters.”
Bloomberg News stood firmly behind Lucey, stating that its journalists “perform a vital public service” and reaffirming their commitment to holding power to account. The network’s defense has been echoed by other major news organizations, with many calling for greater respect for the press.
Broader Implications for Press Freedom
This incident has reignited debates about the treatment of journalists, particularly women, in the White House press corps. Critics argue that such insults not only undermine the dignity of individual reporters but also threaten the broader principle of a free and independent press. The controversy comes at a time when press freedom is under increasing scrutiny, with several high-profile incidents involving journalists being targeted or discredited by political figures.
Catherine Lucey’s Career and Impact
Catherine Lucey is a seasoned journalist with a distinguished career covering politics and policy. She has reported for Bloomberg, the Associated Press, and other major outlets, earning a reputation for her incisive questioning and commitment to factual reporting. Her work has often focused on issues of national importance, including healthcare, economic policy, and government accountability.
What This Means for the Future
The fallout from Trump’s comments is likely to have lasting implications for the relationship between the press and the presidency. Advocacy groups are calling for stronger protections for journalists and more accountability for public officials who engage in personal attacks. Meanwhile, Lucey’s experience serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by women in journalism and the ongoing need for vigilance in defending press freedom.
Key Takeaways
- President Trump’s “quiet piggy” comment directed at Catherine Lucey has sparked widespread condemnation.
- Major media organizations and advocacy groups have defended Lucey and criticized the president’s remarks.
- The incident highlights ongoing concerns about the treatment of female journalists and the broader issue of press freedom.
- Catherine Lucey’s career exemplifies the importance of rigorous, independent journalism in holding power to account.
Sources
1. Trump Silences Reporter Calling Her 'Piggy' During Air Force One ...
2. Celebrity news - IMDb
3. [PDF] Achieving Competency-Based, Time-Variable Health Professions ...
4. [PDF] IN THE SUPERIOR COURT OF THE STATE OF DELAWARE US ...
5. U.S.-China Strategic Competition in South and East China Seas
6. [PDF] “YOU'VE TAKEN ALL YOU CAN BEAR”1: REPLACING THE ...
