In a surprising turn at a prestigious cultural event, US President Donald Trump directly targeted popular television host Jimmy Kimmel, delivering sharp criticism and making a bold statement about his own presidency.
Trump's Blunt Critique at the Kennedy Center
During the Kennedy Center Honours ceremony held on December 7, 2025, President Trump departed from the event's usual celebratory tone. He singled out late-night talk show host Jimmy Kimmel, who was involved in the event, labelling his performance as "horrible" and calling him a "terrible host." The President used the platform to draw a direct, and unusual, comparison between entertainment prowess and political legitimacy.
"If I Can't Beat Jimmy, I Shouldn't Be President"
The core of Trump's message was a striking personal challenge. He argued that if Jimmy Kimmel proved to be "more talented" than him, then his own presidency "wouldn't make sense." Trump positioned himself not just as a political leader but as a competing entertainer, insisting that to deserve the office of the President, he must outshine rival talents like Kimmel. This comment frames political leadership in an unprecedented context of direct personal competition in the realm of public performance.
Context and Immediate Reactions
The Kennedy Center Honours is an annual ceremony recognising lifetime contributions to American culture through the performing arts. Trump's decision to use this stage for a personal and political jab immediately shifted the spotlight. While the full reaction from Kimmel and the audience is part of the event's recording, such a public critique from a sitting President to a television personality is highly unusual. The incident underscores the ongoing, and often theatrical, feud between Trump and certain figures in the media and entertainment industry.
This event adds another chapter to the long-standing tension between Trump and late-night comedy, a genre that has frequently scrutinised his presidency. By stating his need to be the superior entertainer, Trump continues to blend the boundaries between politics, media, and show business, a hallmark of his political career.
