WASHINGTON - Former White House Communications Director Karoline Leavitt asserted that President Donald Trump was unaware of any involvement by his management in ABC’s decision to postpone airing a Jimmy Kimmel monologue critical of Trump,and simultaneously criticized former President Barack Obama‘s media appearances. Leavitt’s statements came September 21, 2025, following reports that ABC had delayed the segment, prompting speculation about potential White House pressure.
The controversy underscores ongoing tensions between political figures and media outlets,raising questions about editorial independence and the influence of presidential administrations. The incident affects public discourse surrounding political satire and the boundaries of acceptable criticism, particularly during election cycles. Further scrutiny is expected regarding ABC’s internal decision-making process and any communications between network executives and representatives of the Trump administration.Leavitt, speaking on a national television program, directly denied any knowledge of White House intervention. “President Trump had no idea this was even happening,” she stated. “To suggest that he would be involved in something like this is absurd.” She further accused the mainstream media of consistently attempting to undermine Trump’s presidency.
Turning her attention to Obama, Leavitt criticized his frequent appearances on late-night talk shows and podcasts since leaving office. “Barack Obama is free to roam the late-night circuit and bash conservatives, but when Jimmy Kimmel dares to poke fun at donald Trump, suddenly there’s a problem?” she questioned. “The hypocrisy is astounding.”
ABC News has confirmed the postponement of the Kimmel segment but has not provided a specific reason, citing only ”standard editorial practices.” The network intends to air the monologue at a later, unspecified date. The original segment reportedly contained jokes about Trump’s legal challenges and public statements.
