The clash took place in public view, revolving around Risto Mejide and Oscar Puente as the dispute unfolded. The host of the program Everything is a Lie addressed a claim made by the Minister of Transport that Miguel Ángel Rodríguez, a close confidant of Ayuso, contacted Mediaset executives and urged the broadcaster to show leniency toward the president. The conflict centers on tensions within the Community of Madrid related to alleged tax issues involving Ayuso’s associate, sparking a heated exchange across media platforms.
After the incident, media outlets released statements denying any attempt to influence journalists at Telecinco and Cuatro. They asserted that no communications were made that would compromise the independence or freedom of reporters working for these networks. The denial was swift and clear, aiming to shield journalistic integrity from political meddling claims and preserve trust in the reporting process. (Source: Telecinco networks)
In the midst of the controversy, Mejide received a measure of support from two journalists who publicly defended his position. One comes from Cuatro, while the other is affiliated with laSexta, the rival network. Their public backing underscored the high stakes of the debate and highlighted the tense atmosphere within Spanish political-media circles. (Source: network statements)
Antonio García Ferreras, the long-running host of Al Rojo Vivo on the Atresmedia group, weighed in with a critique that suggested the discussions created around the issue were being leveraged to cast doubt on a politician. His remarks also touched off a broader Twitter debate, drawing in voices from across the political spectrum and media landscape. (Source: Atresmedia program coverage)
When Mejide spoke again, he sought to frame the episode as a defense of journalistic work rather than a personal defense. He highlighted the willingness of two journalists to stand up publicly for the merit of the program and for the principle of lawful conduct within the press. According to Mejide, they did not hesitate to challenge the minister and to insist that any attempt to pressure media would be unacceptable in a state governed by the rule of law. He expressed his appreciation for their courage and integrity, noting that their stance reinforced the importance of an independent press in safeguarding democratic norms. (Source: program coverage and public statements)