On January 30, 2026, during an Oval Office event where President Donald Trump signed an executive order to host an IndyCar race on the streets of Washington, D.C., he had a hilarious exchange with ABC News White House correspondent Karen Travers.
Shamelessly trying to score political points, Travers attempted to question Trump about his newly filed $10 billion lawsuit against the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and the Treasury Department, agencies under his administration, for leaking his tax returns.
Firing back, Trump dismissed her, saying, “You’re a loud person, very loud. Let somebody else have a chance.” He then labeled ABC News as “fake news” and “truly one of the worst,” repeatedly saying “ABC fake news” while calling on other reporters and avoiding the question.
In any case, the irritating journalist interjected, “And the IRS. Why are you doing [with them]?” Responding, Trump said, “You’re a loud person, very loud. Let somebody else have a chance.” Freaking out, the disrespectful reporter said, “Can you answer the question?” However, Trump retorted, “ABC?…ABC? [You’re] fake news. Go ahead. I didn’t call on you…ABC, by the way, is truly one of the worst.”
“We’re celebrating greatness with American motor racing. It’s going to take place from August 21st to 23rd, and it’s going to be so exciting. And I love the race,” the president noted earlier in the same event, echoing comments from an executive order.
In the executive order, which was the reason for the press conference, the president wrote, “For over 100 years, American INDYCAR racing has set the pace for motor sports. With speeds topping over 200 miles per hour, the cars and drivers inspire awe and respect in all who watch this quintessentially American sport.”
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The document noted, “It has given us racing legends such as A.J. Foyt and Mario Andretti, and continues to thrill every Memorial Day weekend when people travel from across the globe to the Indianapolis 500, the largest single-day sporting event in the world.”
Building on this point, the executive order noted, “INDYCAR racing is a source of pride and entertainment for our Nation, which is why I am pleased to announce the Freedom 250 Grand Prix in Washington, D.C.” The document added, “This race, the first motor race ever to be held in our Nation’s capital near the National Mall, will showcase the majesty of our great city as drivers navigate a track around our iconic national monuments in celebration of America’s 250th birthday.”
Offering his take on the event, United States Secretary of Transportation Sean Duffy reacted, “Freedom doesn’t ring, it revs! INDYCAR is about competition and pushing limits — the same things that have always defined America,” adding, “There’s no better place to celebrate our 250th anniversary than bringing that energy to the nation’s capital and showcasing Washington, D.C. to the world.”
Motorsports legend Roger Penske noted, “President Trump has bestowed an incredible distinction upon our sport, and we’re grateful for his trust and support as INDYCAR prepares to honor our country with a tremendous racing spectacle.”
“This will be a truly memorable event that celebrates our country’s independence and the legacy of patriotism, innovation and excellence that powers motorsports across America,” he said to conclude his glowing comments.
Featured image from embedded video