Ahead of his town hall-style interview on CNN, former President Donald Trump has criticized the network as "desperate" for ratings. Scheduled for Wednesday, May 10, and moderated by CNN This Morning anchor Kaitlan Collins, the interview marks Trump's first appearance on the major news network since campaigning for the 2016 presidential election. On his Truth Social platform, Trump promoted the event while taking a swipe at CNN.

On Tuesday, May 9, he wrote, "I’ll be doing CNN tomorrow night, LIVE from the Great State of New Hampshire, because they are rightfully desperate to get those fantastic (TRUMP!) ratings once again." He added, "They made me a deal I couldn’t refuse!!! Could be the beginning of a New & Vibrant CNN, with no more Fake News, or it could turn into a disaster for all, including me. Let’s see what happens?"

The interview will be held at St. Anselm College in New Hampshire, where Trump will answer questions from Republicans and undecided voters trying to determine their choice for the presidential primary. In a statement shared earlier this month, CNN highlighted its tradition of hosting town halls and political events with leading presidential candidates as part of its comprehensive campaign coverage.

Trump announced his candidacy for the 2024 presidential election in November last year, following his loss to Joe Biden in 2020. Despite his mounting legal challenges, the former president has been actively campaigning across the country.

As previously reported by OK!, Trump was indicted on 34 felony charges of falsifying business documents by a grand jury in March. The charges are related to an alleged 2016 hush money payment to adult film actress Stormy Daniels. Trump is accused of making the payment to prevent Daniels from discussing an alleged sexual encounter that took place between them in 2006, one year after he married his current wife, Melania Trump.

Trump was arraigned on Tuesday, April 4, and pleaded not guilty to all charges.