The Society of Professional Journalists expressed solidarity with fellow journalists after President Donald Trump directed pointed remarks at reporters on at least two recent occasions.

Last week, The Associated Press reported that Trump referred to Bloomberg News reporter Catherine Lucey as “piggy” during a question-and-answer session on Air Force One, when she asked about releasing files related to the investigation of Jeffrey Epstein.

Then on Tuesday, Trump called ABC News’ Mary Bruce a “terrible reporter” and threatened the network’s license to broadcast after she asked some hard-hitting questions directed at Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House, as reported by The Associated Press.

On Wednesday, the national organization — dedicated to promoting the free practice of journalism — issued a statement condemning Trump’s latest attacks on journalists.

“Journalists are not props at a photo op — they are watchdogs for the public,” said SPJ Executive Director Caroline Hendrie, in a statement. “When reporters ask hard questions about the murder of a fellow journalist, that is not an embarrassment. What’s embarrassing is a leader trying to silence those questions.”

The news release called the president’s comments a “pattern of hostility” and noted that they are mostly directed at women.

During a press conference, Bruce asked a direct question about the 2018 murder of Washington Post Columnist Jamal Khashoggi.

“Your Royal Highness, the U.S. intelligence concluded that you orchestrated the brutal murder of a journalist. 9/11 families are furious that you are here in the Oval Office. Why should Americans trust you? And the same to you, Mr. President,” Bruce had asked.

Trump then responded to Bruce.

“Rather than let the Crown Prince answer, the president cut in to belittle the question, dismiss Khashoggi as ‘not well liked,’” SPJ’s statement said.

“Khashoggi’s murder remains one of the most chilling attacks on press freedom in modern history. Deflecting, minimizing and personally scolding reporters who dare raise the issue sends a dangerous message to governments around the world that violence against journalists is, at worst, negotiable and, at best, forgettable.”

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