Legendary broadcaster corners Steve Bannon on Trump’s decline: ‘I see what he looks like’: news
12-10-2026
Ted Koppel Confronts Steve Bannon on Donald Trump’s Apparent Decline
Veteran journalist and former Nightline anchor Ted Koppel confronted former White House chief strategist Steve Bannon during a high-profile interview on CBS Sunday Morning, repeatedly pressing him on Donald Trump’s age, stamina, and apparent cognitive decline.
MediaiteThe Exchange Between Ted Koppel and Steve Bannon
During the segment, Koppel challenged Bannon directly over whether the former president has slowed down, asserting that Trump has visibly “lost a step or two” and is no longer as sharp as he once was:
MediaiteKoppel’s Observation: Koppel stated, “Trump has lost his fastball. He’s not as quick as he used to be.”
MediaiteBannon’s Pushback: Bannon pushed back, scoffing at the claim, asking Koppel, “Why do you say that?” and arguing that Trump still maintains an intense schedule, allegedly working up to 20 hours a day.
MediaiteThe Blunt Response: Koppel delivered the headline-making retort: “I say that because I see what he looks like.” He went on to argue that many Americans view Trump’s public appearances and off-script remarks with deep embarrassment.
Bannon Defends Trump and Floats a Third Term
Despite Koppel pressing the issue four separate times during the discussion, Bannon refused to concede that Trump has suffered any noticeable decline. Instead, Bannon dismissed the criticism as mainstream media bias, compared Trump to historic figures like George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, and reiterated his position that Trump remains the driving force of the MAGA movementeven advocating that Trump should pursue a third presidential term.
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