US President Donald Trump sparked fresh online reaction after making an unusual comment about White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt while speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One on Sunday. The incident occurred as the aircraft experienced turbulence over the Atlantic Ocean during the return flight from his Mar-a-Lago resort to Washington, DC. 

As the flight hit bumpy conditions, Trump warned the assembled press that the ride would soon get rough and urged them to move quickly. Standing off to one side in the hallway of the plane, he joked about seeking something to hold onto for balance. “I’m looking for something to grab here,” Trump said, before adding with a grin, “and it’s not going to be Karoline,” referring to Leavitt, who was nearby.

Leavitt appeared momentarily taken aback before laughing off the comment. Reporters largely ignored the remark and pressed the president on policy questions, including his strategy regarding relations with Venezuela.

Viral Video And Public Reaction

A video of the exchange quickly went viral on the social media platform X, drawing both amusement and criticism. Many users reacted to the awkward nature of the comment, while others noted it as typical of Trump’s off-the-cuff style. Some netizens described the joke as “creepy” or out of place, reflecting broader debates about etiquette and professionalism in political communication.

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A Pattern Of Unconventional Remarks

This is not the first time Trump has made unconventional comments about Leavitt. In 2025, he drew attention for praising her appearance and communication style in ways that sparked online debate, including remarks about her lips and on-air presence.

Leavitt, who holds the distinction of being the youngest press secretary in the White House under Trump’s second term, has often been on the receiving end of the president’s spontaneous humour during press interactions. Despite the occasional awkward moment, she has continued to serve as the public face of White House communications.

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