US President Donald Trump clashed with an ABC reporter during a heated exchange outside the White House, accusing Australian journalist John Lyons of “hurting Australia” after being questioned about his family’s lucrative business activities since returning to office.
The dramatic confrontation occurred on Tuesday as Trump prepared to depart for London, marking another escalation in tensions between the president and international media covering his administration.
ABC Journalist Targets Trump’s Business Empire
John Lyons, ABC’s Americas editor reporting for the Four Corners program, pressed Trump about whether it was appropriate for a sitting president to be “engaged in so much business activity” while in office.
‘You’re hurting Australia’: Donald Trump criticises ABC journalist John Lyons in White House clash pic.twitter.com/rlR4glUEVF
— Ben Knight (@benknight38) September 16, 2025
The question struck a nerve with Trump, who immediately demanded to know where Lyons worked.
“I am from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation,” Lyons replied.
Trump’s response was swift and pointed: “Oh, the Australian — you’re hurting Australia. In my opinion, you are hurting Australia very much right now, and they want to get along with me.“
The president then revealed plans for an upcoming meeting with Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, stating: “Your leader is coming over to see me very soon. I’m going to tell him about you. You set a very bad tone.“
Trump Family’s Crypto Windfall Under Scrutiny
The confrontation comes as the Trump family’s wealth has surged by approximately $7.5 billion through cryptocurrency ventures since the president’s return to office in January 2025.
Recent reports indicate Trump’s crypto holdings now represent nearly 40% of his total net worth, primarily through World Liberty Financial and various memecoins including $TRUMP and $MELANIA tokens.
The family’s cryptocurrency business, World Liberty Financial, recently saw its WLFI token begin trading, instantly adding $7.5 billion to their paper wealth when the token peaked at 40 cents.
Bloomberg’s analysis shows the Trump family now controls over 22.5 billion WLFI tokens, making cryptocurrency their fastest-growing asset class beyond traditional real estate holdings.
“Quiet!” – Tensions Escalate
As Lyons continued questioning Trump about his business dealings, the president became increasingly agitated.
“Well, I don’t know the deals I’ve made for the most part, other than what my kids are doing, they’re running my business,” Trump responded. “But most of the deals that I’ve made were made before.“
When Lyons persisted with questions about the appropriateness of presidential business activities, Trump curtly told him to be “quiet” and attempted to move to other reporters.
The Australian journalist later described the exchange as reflecting a broader “war on the media” being waged by the Trump administration.
Political Ramifications for Australia-US Relations
Trump’s threat to discuss Lyons with Prime Minister Albanese highlights the delicate nature of Australia-US political tensions that could affect broader economic relationships.
The incident occurs as Australia seeks to strengthen ties with the US, particularly around critical minerals supply chains and defence cooperation.
Federal government ministers from across the political spectrum defended the ABC, emphasising journalists’ rights to ask difficult questions of world leaders.
“The journalists are there to try to keep politicians accountable and they’re entitled to ask difficult questions,” said minister Clare O’Neil.
Press Freedom Under Fire
The confrontation extends beyond a single journalist, representing broader concerns about press freedom under the current administration.
Trump has simultaneously launched a $22.5 billion defamation lawsuit against The New York Times while threatening to use the Department of Justice against media outlets that displease him.
California Governor Gavin Newsom criticised Trump’s approach, posting on social media: “Donald Trump says he will send the DOJ after the press if they say things he doesn’t like.”
Donald Trump says he will send the DOJ after the press if they say things he doesn’t like. https://t.co/c3Mik1c3dx
— Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) September 16, 2025
Business Ethics Questions Mount
The ABC’s investigation into Trump’s business activities reveals unprecedented opportunities for wealthy individuals and foreign entities to curry favour with the administration through cryptocurrency investments.
Ethics experts argue the family’s expanding crypto empire creates conflicts of interest that previous presidents avoided through blind trusts or complete divestment.
“It’s corruption, plain and simple,” said one Democratic critic, pointing to the direct financial benefits flowing to the Trump family from their cryptocurrency ventures.
Also read: Elon Musk Purchases Over $1 Billion in Tesla Shares, Strengthening Investor Confidence
What’s Next for Australia-US Relations?
The upcoming meeting between Trump and Albanese at the UN General Assembly will be closely watched for any fallout from the media confrontation.
Australia’s mining sector continues benefiting from strong US demand for critical minerals, making diplomatic stability crucial for both nations.
The incident serves as another reminder of Trump’s combative relationship with international media and his willingness to personalise diplomatic relationships based on media coverage.
As global political tensions continue affecting markets and trade relationships, the Australia-US alliance faces new tests beyond traditional economic partnerships.
FAQs
Q: What triggered Trump’s anger at the ABC reporter?
A: John Lyons questioned whether it was appropriate for a president to be engaged in extensive business activities while in office.
Q: How much has the Trump family’s wealth increased?
A: Reports indicate their crypto ventures have added approximately $7.5 billion to their wealth since January 2025.
Q: Will this affect Australia-US relations?
A: The incident could create diplomatic tensions, though both countries have strong economic incentives to maintain cooperation.
