Jonathan Karl on Trump's 'Retribution' and Media Dynamics

Reporting on Trump 2.0

• 🎯 Jonathan Karl's new book, "Retribution: Donald Trump and the Campaign That Changed America," details Trump's meticulous planning for a potential second administration.
• 💡 Trump indicated a shift from his previous term, stating, "Last time, I didn't know anybody. I had no experience in Washington. This time, I know people. This time is going to be different."
• 🔑 The upcoming cabinet and White House staff are described as being built in Trump's image, with an agenda developed over four years prior.

The Strange Dynamic with Reporters

• 💬 Karl recounts Trump's tendency to pick up the phone when called, despite publicly expressing disdain for reporters and outlets like ABC News.
• 🎭 Trump's harsh criticisms, including misspelling Karl's name and threatening to back out of a debate, were followed by him calling Karl days later as if nothing had happened.
• 🤝 Karl suggests a "game respects game" dynamic, where Trump understands and respects the roles of serious reporters, even when they ask difficult questions.

Trump's Media Consumption

• 📺 Unlike previous presidents who consumed less news, Trump is noted for meticulously watching and reacting to news coverage across various networks.
• 🧐 This includes watching weekend morning shows like "Good Morning America" in the final days of his campaign, which Karl found astounding.
• ⚡ Karl describes Trump's behavior as a "singular phenomenon" among presidents he has covered.

Performance and Personal Interactions

• 😂 Despite harsh public comments and even direct criticism in the Oval Office, Trump has also complimented Karl in front of others and laughed off tense moments.
• 🗣️ Karl believes part of Trump's interaction with the press is a performance, a way to stay engaged and play the game hard.
• ✅ Karl and his colleagues, like Maggie Haberman and Caitlyn Collins, are seen by Trump as serious reporters who treat him with respect, which facilitates their continued access.