Jim Acosta

Jim Acosta is an American journalist best known for his long career at CNN, including service as chief White House correspondent and later as anchor and chief domestic correspondent.

Jim Acosta is an American journalist best known for his long career at CNN, where he served as chief White House correspondent and later as anchor and chief domestic correspondent. He gained national attention for his confrontations with President Donald Trump during White House press briefings. Acosta left CNN in January 2025.

Early life and education

Jim Acosta was born Abilio James Acosta on April 17, 1971, in Washington, D.C. He studied mass communications at James Madison University.

Career at CNN

Acosta joined CNN in 2007 and later became chief White House correspondent, a role that brought him prominence during the Obama and Trump administrations. In 2021 he was named CNN anchor and chief domestic correspondent, and he departed the network in January 2025.

Public profile

Acosta became widely recognized for his confrontational exchanges with Donald Trump during press briefings, which drew national attention and made him a prominent figure in U.S. political journalism.

Writing and media work

In 2019, Acosta published The Enemy of the People: A Dangerous Time to Tell the Truth in America, a book about his experience covering the Trump presidency. He has also been credited in other screen and media productions.