White House calls reporter Trump swatted away ‘whiny Fake News loser’

Donald Trump sparked outrage among California lawmakers after suggesting at a Nebraska rally that Iran taking out Los Angeles and San Diego would be a small price to pay for national safety.

California Democrats, including Gov. Gavin Newsom and L.A. Mayor Karen Bass, strongly condemned the comments, while local Republican figures also publicly rejected the idea that American cities are expendable.

As he appeared on the White House lawn the following day, a female reporter called out to Trump: “Mr President, what did you mean by your comments yesterday about San Diego and Los Angeles possibly being wiped out by Iran?”

He walked toward her as though he were about to answer before making a swatting gesture with his right hand and ignoring her. The identity of the reporter who asked the question is not clear.

The White House defended the president on social media, accusing the press of perpetuating a hoax and asserting Trump meant U.S. cities would have faced threats had Iran acquired nuclear capabilities.