Donald Trump on Sunday excoriated Fox News for what he characterized as a “politically correct” interview conducted by correspondent Peter Doocy with a Democratic strategist, demanding the network “fix it, NOW!” The former president’s outburst, posted on his Truth Social platform, centered on Doocy’s questioning of strategist Lis Smith regarding Trump’s recent rhetoric.
The dispute underscores the increasingly fraught relationship between Trump and Fox News, once a staunch ally. While still frequently appearing on the network, trump has repeatedly criticized its coverage, particularly when he perceives it as insufficiently supportive. This latest clash highlights the delicate balance Fox News attempts to maintain between appealing to its conservative base-including ardent Trump supporters-and presenting a semblance of journalistic objectivity, a dynamic that will likely intensify as the 2024 election cycle progresses.
Trump specifically took issue with Doocy’s line of questioning, which he deemed overly accommodating to Smith’s criticisms. “Peter Doocy,who I like,but is very low energy,was brutalized last night by a radical left Democrat on Fox News,” Trump wrote. he continued, ”Fox News is getting very ‘politically correct,’ and that’s not what their viewers want. Fix it, NOW!”
The interview in question aired on October 5, 2025, during a segment on Fox News’ “The Story with Martha MacCallum.” Smith, a veteran Democratic strategist, challenged trump’s claims about the economy and his attacks on political opponents. Doocy’s follow-up questions, according to Trump, did not adequately counter Smith’s arguments.
Trump’s post quickly gained traction on social media, prompting a flurry of responses from both supporters and critics. The incident is likely to fuel further debate about the role of conservative media in the upcoming presidential election and the extent to which networks will prioritize loyalty to their audience versus autonomous reporting.