Speaking to Kayleigh McEnany, Leavitt dismissed Obama’s concerns, stating, “With all due respect to former President Obama, he has no idea what he’s talking about.” She insisted the decision to cancel the program originated from ABC executives, not the White House.
Leavitt emphasized that President Trump was not made aware of the suspension until after it occurred. She said she personally delivered the news to him while they were in the United Kingdom. According to her, Trump reacted positively to the development, even though he had no role in the decision.
She added that the network’s choice likely stemmed from business considerations, pointing out that Kimmel’s ratings had been struggling. By framing the cancellation as a corporate move rather than political interference, Leavitt countered Obama’s warning about government coercion.
The debate surrounding Kimmel’s suspension highlights ongoing tensions between politics, the media, and questions of free speech—issues that continue to spark strong reactions on all sides.
