During a recent podcast appearance, CNN host Kaitlan Collins shared her experience while covering President Donald Trump's visit to Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the challenges journalists face in a country known for its restrictions on media. She recounted an incident where she posed a question to President Trump, which he chose not to answer, a common occurrence in such press setups. However, this prompted a strong reaction from the Saudi Royal Guard, illustrating their discomfort with press inquiries in their tightly controlled environment.

Collins elaborated that after her question, she attempted to attend the next press event but faced opposition from Saudi authorities who informed her she would be denied access due to her prior question. This confrontation highlighted the limited freedoms in Saudi Arabia and the lengths to which the government goes to manage media interactions. Despite pressure, Collins stood her ground, showcasing the resilience often required of journalists, especially in regions with strict media oversight.

Karoline Leavitt, the White House press secretary, played a pivotal role during this incident, defending Collins' right to press access and emphasizing the importance of a free press. This support not only underscores the role of press secretaries in safeguarding journalists but also points to the ongoing struggle for media freedom in authoritarian regimes like Saudi Arabia, where the press faces significant barriers.