Video: Reporters Look On Silently as Tim Pool Calls Out Media Bias in Debut White House Briefing Room Question

Tim Pool’s first appearance in the newly established “new media” seat at the White House press briefing room did more than just make headlines — it highlighted why the position was created in the first place.

Amid ongoing criticism from traditional outlets, the second Trump administration introduced a media spot designated for “podcasters, social media influencers and other creators of ‘news-related content,’” according to The New York Times. The change, the Times noted, disrupted the “delicate journalistic ecosystem” of the James S. Brady Briefing Room.

Unsurprisingly, the Times’ framing varied depending on ideology: left-leaning creators were largely unlabeled, while others were flagged as “right-wing media,” associated with “right-wing podcast[s]” or “right-wing video platform[s].”

On the day he took the seat, Pool used his moment to raise issues with how mainstream media handles narratives.

“Many of the news organization that are represented in this room have marched in lock step on false narratives,” Pool said, referencing the “very fine people” hoax, the Covington student controversy, and the so-called “Maryland man” hoax. In that case, an MS-13 member reportedly adjudicated by two judges was “simply being referred to as a ‘Maryland man’ over and over again,” Pool explained.

He then asked, “In an effort from the White House to expand access to new companies, you’ve created this ‘new media’ seat. So I’m wondering if you can comment on — following this expansion, you’ve had numerous outlets disparage the companies that you’ve had sit here, as well as the reporters” featured.

“I’m wondering if you can comment on that unprofessional behavior, as well as elaborate on if there’s any plans to expand access to new companies.”

The pointed question drew visible discomfort in the room. For many, it was a moment of accountability for establishment journalists.

Press secretary Karoline Leavitt responded, “We certainly welcome diverse viewpoints,” explaining the presence of “many new faces in this room.” She emphasized a preference for “unbiased journalists who really care about the truth and the facts and accuracy.” She specifically addressed the mischaracterization of Kilmar Abrego Garcia — the so-called “Maryland father” — as an example of misleading reporting. As she suggested, describing him that way was technically accurate but fundamentally deceptive, akin to calling Che Guevara merely an “Argentine physician.”

Despite the gravity of the moment, some legacy journalists online focused on Pool’s fashion choice — particularly his beanie — rather than his critique.

But Pool’s supporters argue the mockery only underscores the media’s disinterest in self-reflection. These are, after all, outlets that promoted disproven stories around Trump-Russia collusion, downplayed the COVID-19 lab-leak theory, and continue to push the “very fine people” narrative years after it’s been challenged.

They may not wear beanies — but for many Americans, it’s the ideas, not the attire, that matter.