Dylan Mulvaney, a transgender influencer, responded to comments made by President Donald Trump during the White House Correspondents' Association (WHCA) Dinner on July 27, 2026. Trump compared Mulvaney to CNN anchor Kaitlan Collins, stating, "Maybe being publicly mocked and criticized by this administration is actually like the greatest compliment of all," Mulvaney said in a TikTok post. Mulvaney, known for a controversial partnership with Bud Light that resulted in significant backlash, expressed gratitude for the attention, stating, "To the president, thank you for reminding me that I am more powerful than I even knew."
During his remarks, Trump criticized Collins, who received an award for her reporting, suggesting her recognition was undeserved. He remarked on her demeanor, urging her to smile more. Collins later responded with a quote from Eleanor Roosevelt, stating, "No one can make you feel inferior without your consent." CNN's CEO Mark Thompson issued a statement supporting Collins and reaffirming the network's commitment to journalistic integrity.