Additional Coverage:
CNN’s Kaitlan Collins, known for her sharp questioning of the Trump administration, found herself in an unusual situation this weekend – stifling laughter on air. During a Saturday segment covering the recent firings at the Pentagon, Collins could be heard chuckling while reporting on the departure of Joe Kasper, chief of staff to then-Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. “Though tonight a tumultuous week at the Pentagon is being capped off by the departure of Joe Kasper, the chief of staff to the defense secretary Pete Hegseth,” she said, pausing to add, “Excuse me.”
The on-air moment sparked speculation online. Some viewers attributed the laughter to the general atmosphere of political absurdity, particularly given Hegseth’s recent transition from Fox News host to a high-level Pentagon position. Others suggested a more mundane explanation, speculating that Collins was experiencing a coughing fit or throat spasms.
The Pentagon has seen significant upheaval this week with multiple senior advisers dismissed amidst a leak investigation. According to reports, the investigation, initiated by Kasper, focused on leaks concerning military plans related to the Panama Canal and an alleged meeting between Hegseth and Elon Musk regarding China.
The incident follows a tense exchange between Collins and President Trump earlier in the week. During a White House press briefing, Trump criticized Collins’ line of questioning regarding a Supreme Court ruling on deportations. He accused her of lacking credibility and dismissed her by calling on another reporter.