Donald Trump expressed deep condolences for Ted Turner, the pioneering founder of CNN, who recently passed away at the age of 87. In a social media tribute, Trump not only honored Turner’s legacy but also took the opportunity to critique the current state of the news network, which he has frequently criticized as ‘fake news.’ “Ted Turner, one of the greatest visionaries of all time, has left us,” Trump posted on Wednesday morning. “He established CNN, later sold it, and was heartbroken by the transaction as the new owners transformed his ‘baby’ into something completely unrecognizable — a network he believed strayed from his ideals.”
Trump Praises Turner
Trump suggested that CNN’s “new owners” might eventually be able to restore the network’s “credibility and former glory.” He praised Turner as a broadcasting legend and a cherished friend, noting, “Whenever I needed him, he was always ready to champion a worthy cause!” Turner launched CNN in Atlanta in 1980, revolutionizing the news industry by delivering continuous updates from both national and international sources. This innovation spurred the emergence of other 24-hour news channels like Fox News and MSNBC, now known as MS NOW.
In addition to founding CNN, Turner was also the mastermind behind channels such as TBS, TNT, and Cartoon Network. Trump and Turner once considered adapting the former president’s bestselling book, “Art of the Deal,” into a film with a proposed budget of $3 million. However, the project never came to fruition. Despite their long-standing relationship, Turner parted ways with Trump in 2016, choosing instead to endorse Hillary Clinton for the presidency. “From one billionaire to another, Donald, I prefer Hillary,” Turner wrote in a blog post in October 2016.
Trump Clashed With Ex-CNN Host Jim Acosta During First Term
During his first term, Trump sparred repeatedly with former CNN host Jim Acosta, whom he eventually banned from White House events. A judge later ordered Acosta’s press pass to be restored. More recently, the President has taken shots at CNN hosts Jake Tapper and Kaitlan Collins. Last week, he ripped CNN commentator Van Jones.
