The New York Times has publicly defended one of its journalists after she became the latest target of former President Donald Trump's social media attacks. The confrontation emerged following the publication of an article examining Trump's health and aging as he serves his second term.
The Controversial Article on Presidential Health
Reporter Katie Rogers collaborated with colleague Dylan Freedman on a piece titled "Shorter Days, Signs of Fatigue: Trump Faces Realities of Aging in Office." The comprehensive analysis revealed significant changes in Trump's presidential routines and public presence.
The article presented compelling data showing that Trump has reduced his public appearances by 39% compared to his first presidency. The report also documented that the president has maintained a shorter daily schedule than during the same period in his initial term. Among the most notable observations, the journalists reported witnessing Trump dozing off during official meetings.
Trump's Fiery Response on Truth Social
President Trump responded with characteristic fury on his Truth Social platform, dismissing the article as a "hit piece" and launching personal attacks against Rogers. In his social media post dated November 26, 2025, Trump escalated his criticism beyond the article's content to target the reporter personally.
"This cheap 'RAG' is truly an 'ENEMY OF THE PEOPLE,'" Trump wrote, using his familiar terminology for media outlets he opposes. He specifically attacked Rogers, calling her "a third rate reporter who is ugly, both inside and out" and accusing her of being "assigned to write only bad things about me."
The New York Times Stands By Its Reporting
The newspaper's communications team responded firmly through their official X account, supporting both the article's accuracy and their reporter's professionalism. A Times spokesperson emphasized that the reporting was "accurate and built on first hand reporting of the facts."
The statement directly addressed Trump's personal attacks, asserting that "name-calling and personal insults don't change that, nor will our journalists hesitate to cover this administration in the face of intimidation tactics like this." The Times praised Rogers as an "expert and thorough reporter" whose work exemplifies how "an independent and free press helps the American people better understand their government and its leaders."
This confrontation represents another chapter in the ongoing tension between Trump and the media, particularly with publications he frequently criticizes. The Times maintained its position that factual reporting about presidential health constitutes legitimate public interest journalism, regardless of political pressure or personal attacks.
