In a viral moment that has sent shockwaves through political and media circles, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt delivered a brutal takedown of former CNN anchor Jim Acosta after he dismissed her as a “bad liar” and a “kid” during an interview. What started as a typical political exchange quickly turned fiery, with Leavitt’s unfiltered response leaving Acosta, and the audience, stunned.

The Sparks Fly: Acosta’s Dismissal of Leavitt

The exchange began when Acosta criticized Leavitt’s ability to handle tough questions in the press room, calling her a “bad liar” and mocking her youthfulness. Acosta, who gained attention during his combative tenure at CNN, made the remarks during an interview with MeidasTouch, an anti-Trump media outlet. He claimed that Trump’s press secretaries were part of an “All-Star team of liars” and added, “She might be on the bench right now, but if she keeps working hard, does her homework, she just might make it onto the team.”

For many, Acosta’s comments felt like yet another attack on conservative women in high-profile positions, and Leavitt was not about to let them slide.

Leavitt Fires Back with a Stunning Rejoinder

In a fiery moment on Fox News, Karoline Leavitt addressed Acosta’s remarks, and her response was nothing short of epic. “Since you brought up Jim Acosta,” Leavitt said to Mercedes Schlapp during an interview at CPAC, “he’s been saying some not so nice things about me online, and I’ve resisted responding, but since you brought him up, I’d like to say, ‘Jim, at least I have a job, Jim.’ Okay? Just saying.”

The remark was a direct jab at Acosta’s departure from CNN and his shift to a more independent media presence. The audience, clearly enjoying the moment, erupted in applause and laughter, as Leavitt’s confident and cutting remark resonated with viewers who had grown tired of Acosta’s partisan criticism.

Leavitt’s response highlighted her resilience in the face of personal attacks, showing that she isn’t just holding her own in the White House press room but also in the arena of public discourse.

The Backlash and Media Reactions

Following Leavitt’s remarks, social media was ablaze with reactions. Supporters of Leavitt praised her for calling out Acosta, with many applauding her boldness and no-nonsense approach. “Leavitt just shut down Jim Acosta with one simple sentence,” one Twitter user wrote, while another added, “Love how Karoline handles these guys—no time for their nonsense.”

However, Acosta’s supporters quickly rallied to his defense, criticizing Leavitt’s response as unprofessional and disrespectful. “It’s not about professionalism when it’s about standing up for what’s right,” Leavitt’s defenders shot back. The clash between the two highlighted the increasing division between conservative and liberal media figures, with both sides accusing each other of spreading misinformation and engaging in personal attacks rather than meaningful discourse.

Leavitt on Her Role and Motivation

During her CPAC appearance, Leavitt spoke about her commitment to her job, as well as the challenges she faces as the youngest White House Press Secretary in U.S. history. She emphasized the importance of representing her political beliefs while remaining focused on the responsibilities of the role. “I’m here to deliver the truth, not to please anyone,” she said. “I speak for the American people, not for any political party.”

Leavitt’s remarks weren’t just about defending herself—they were about sending a message to others, particularly young women, who are often targeted for their beliefs. “Don’t let anybody tell you that you can’t achieve your dream or get to the next step,” Leavitt continued. “There will be a lot of people who don’t believe in you, who will cast doubt, who will talk bad about you… screw ‘em. It doesn’t matter.”

A Wider Conversation: The Politics of Gender in Media

Leavitt’s heated exchange with Acosta also touched on a larger issue within political and media circles: the treatment of women in conservative roles. Leavitt’s rise to prominence as a young conservative woman in a male-dominated space has made her a target for criticism, often from media figures like Acosta, who have questioned her credibility and professionalism. But her response to those criticisms—always measured, yet assertive—has made her a role model for women who refuse to be silenced in the face of adversity.

Her ability to take on figures like Acosta with poise and strength while defending conservative values has only added to her growing influence in the political world. “This is what it’s about,” Leavitt said during the interview. “We fight for the truth, we fight for our beliefs, and we make sure that our voices are heard.”

The Legacy of Karoline Leavitt: Rising Star in Conservative Media

While Leavitt’s clash with Acosta may have been one of her most public confrontations, it is unlikely to be the last. As a rising star in conservative media, Leavitt is carving out a space for herself as a bold, fearless leader in a world where the media often plays by its own rules.

Her story is one of resilience, determination, and a refusal to back down. Whether in the White House press room or in the face of media criticism, Karoline Leavitt is proving that she’s here to stay—and she’s not afraid to take on the big names to make sure her voice is heard.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt responds to questions outside the White House