Kaitlan Collins Told to ‘Calm Down’ by White House Staffer, Internet Turns It Into the Year’s Best Meme
In what can only be described as a masterclass in journalistic irony, CNN’s Kaitlan Collins is trending after a White House staffer told her to “calm down” during a press briefing—seconds before Collins fired off the most pointed question of the day. The internet, of course, did what it does best: turned a mildly awkward exchange into a series of reaction memes that are now circulating faster than free coffee at a newsroom. One viral post shows Collins with the caption: “She has 47 questions, coffee in one hand, and a bone to pick with the universe—and yes, she’s calm.” Meme historians are calling it a perfect blend of “underestimated journalist energy” and “don’t tell me to calm down” strength. The clip is now being used in everything from study-with-me videos to protest montages. Collins has yet to comment, but her raised eyebrow says everything.