Donald Trump has decided to participate in a town hall hosted by CNN, a network that his lawyers once described in a lawsuit as a "purveyor of fake news."
What Happened: The decision to participate in the town hall is part of a wider re-engagement with mainstream media, reported Politico.
Those close to the former president are of the belief that by giving interviews and access to mainstream media they can disseminate Trump's message more widely and create a contrast with Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis, who is considered more closed towards such outlets, according to the report.
CNN reached out to Trump's campaign several months ago and talks between the two sides continued until Monday, when the plans were reportedly solidified, reported Politico, citing a person familiar with the matter.
Why It Matters: Last month, the Republican National Committee said that Fox would host the first primary debate but Trump said on social media that he had not given his "approval" and would not participate in an event hosted by "angry, TRUMP & MAGA hating anchors," noted Politico.
Just a week after the denouncement of Fox, CNN reportedly said it would host a town hall with Trump, which would be hosted by Kaitlan Collins, who was known to ask tough questions from Trump while covering him as CNN's White House Correspondent.
Last month, Trump lashed out at Fox News and its owner Ruper Murdoch for their "ridiculous defense of the 2020 Presidential Election." He said at the time, "It's time to get rid of Fake News, and call it like it is."
The former president has also lashed out at the network for showing interviews with DeSantis, who has yet to announce his candidature for the 2024 presidential elections, unlike Trump.
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