'Not Grabbing Karoline': Trump Jokes During Bumpy Flight, Leaves Press Secy Startled | Video

US President Donald Trump sparked a controversy after he made an awkward remark about White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt during a flight back to Washington from Mar-a-Lago on January 11. The comment was made while Trump was speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One as the aircraft experienced turbulence along the Atlantic coast.

Referring to the bumpy flight, Trump said he was searching for something to hold on to, adding that “it’s not going to be Karoline.” Leavitt, who was standing nearby, appeared momentarily taken aback before reacting with laughter.

“I think you did this to me. You put me in a position where there is nothing to grab. I’m looking for something to grab, and it’s not going to be Karoline,” Trump said.

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Donald Trump: I am looking for something to grab and it’s not going to be Karoline

He really said this 😳 pic.twitter.com/mbba3h6sa7

— Frontalforce 🇮🇳 (@FrontalForce) January 12, 2026

The remark came as Trump was asked about meeting Venezuela’s Nobel laureate Maria Corina Machado, who recently expressed her desire to share the Peace Prize with the US president.

The exchange quickly circulated online, drawing sharp reactions from social media users who criticised the comment as inappropriate.

Separately, the White House confirmed that Trump’s motorcade in Florida had been rerouted earlier that day after a “suspicious object” was detected during routine security checks near Palm Beach International Airport. Leavitt later clarified that the item was found during standard sweeps, prompting precautionary measures. Trump said he was unaware of the incident when questioned by reporters.

The episode has added to a growing list of remarks Trump has made about Leavitt that have attracted attention. In the past, he has publicly commented on her speaking style, using colourful language that some have viewed as unprofessional.

Critics on social media accused Trump of crossing personal and professional boundaries, while supporters dismissed the remarks as characteristic humour.

“Karoline is smiling but she is scared of Trump, not sure what he may do,” a social media user wrote. “Absolute clownism from him,” another user commented.

Trump has long been known for making provocative comments, particularly about women, which often spark debate over decorum and the expectations tied to his office.

The incident once again highlights Trump’s unconventional communication style, which continues to polarise public opinion and keep him at the centre of political and cultural debate.