U.S. Conservative Opinion Leaders Criticize the Left at “Anti-Fascist Roundtable”

On October 8, 2025, U.S. President Trump held an “Anti-Fascist Roundtable” at the White House, inviting several self-described independent journalists and conservative social media opinion leaders. Witnesses primarily reported on left-wing protest activities, and their coverage was highly politicized, resembling opposition research rather than neutral news reporting.

Several attendees claimed they were attacked by “Antifa” members while covering protests. For example, Katie Daviscourt said she was hit by a flagpole and injured outside the Portland ICE office. However, police emails indicate that she and two other conservative opinion leaders had actively provoked protesters, and were even considered “counter-protesters,” which led to frequent calls for medical assistance and law enforcement.

Another conservative influencer, Nick Sortor, complained about being arrested, but publicly available footage shows he repeatedly provoked protesters, including trying to retrieve a U.S. flag being burned by protesters and instigating clashes. Some cases were later dropped after pressure from conservative media and threats of investigation from the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.

The roundtable continues, drawing criticism over its political bias and the use of the White House as a platform.