‘Most corrupt’: Donald Trump blasts ABC News reporter after asked about PAC email with military transfer photos

Donald Trump defended a controversial fundraising email from a pro-Trump political action committee that used a photo of a solemn military handover ceremony, ignoring criticism and lashing out at a reporter who asked about it.Many were outraged by the email, which used a photo of Trump from a stately turnout last week wearing a campaign baseball cap.The email, sent Thursday by the pro-Trump political action committee PAC Never Surrender Inc., included a photo of the president paying tribute to the casket of a fallen soldier during a solemn handover ceremony for six U.S. service members killed in an Iranian drone strike in Kuwait last week. The message promoted a new “National Security Briefing Membership” and included several links asking supporters to donate, The Independent reported. In the email, recipients were told that members would receive Trump’s “private national security briefing” and “unfiltered updates on threats facing the United States,” including warnings about foreign adversaries, border security and what the message described as “deep state sabotage” and media cover-ups. The use of images of the transfer ceremony quickly drew backlash from Democratic lawmakers and veterans groups, who argued the moment should not be used for political fundraising.Trump spoke to reporters aboard Air Force One for about 20 minutes Sunday night when an ABC News reporter confronted him about the email and asked whether it was appropriate. When asked if that was appropriate, Trump said “I do” and then attacked the reporter, Mediaite.com reported.Reporter: Mr. President, your political action committee sent out a fundraising email a few days ago that was criticized for using your official White House photo in a solemn diversion.The PAC also promised access to confidential briefings   PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP: Well, unlike many others, I participated in a dignified transfer.Reporter: Do you think it’s appropriate to send this email?President Donald Trump: I do.Reporter: – your critics say you are raising money –PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP: I don’t see that. I mean, someone put it out. We have a lot of people working for us.But there is no one better suited to the military than me. All you have to do is pay attention to the election. Look at the election results. Look at the type of votes we got. Look at all the numbers. As far as the military is concerned, no one holds a higher position than I do as president.Who are you with?Reporter: ABC NewsPresident Donald Trump: One of the worst, most hypocritical, and corrupt countries in the world.Reporter: Would you comment on the dead soldiers?PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP: You know ABC News, I think it’s probably the most corrupt news organization on the planet. I think they are terrible.Reporter: Can you comment on the soldiers?PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP: Well, I don’t want to hear any more from ABC.