Abilio James Acosta is a prominent American broadcast journalist known for his impactful career at CNN, where he served from 2007 to 2025. Acosta gained national recognition as CNN’s chief White House correspondent during both the Obama and Trump administrations, where his assertive questioning style often led to notable exchanges with President Trump at press briefings. His commitment to journalistic integrity and accountability positioned him as a leading voice in political reporting, particularly during contentious times in U.S. politics.

Acosta’s career began in radio at WMAL in Washington, D.C., before transitioning to television as a desk assistant at WTTG-TV. He quickly moved up the ranks, becoming a reporter and substitute anchor at WBIR-TV in Knoxville, Tennessee. His tenure at CBS News further solidified his reputation, where he covered significant events such as the Iraq War and Hurricane Katrina, showcasing his ability to report on complex issues with clarity and depth.

In 2007, Acosta joined CNN, where he played a crucial role in covering the 2008 presidential campaigns and later became the network’s national political correspondent. His promotion to chief White House correspondent in 2018 marked a significant milestone in his career, allowing him to lead CNN’s coverage of critical political events and engage directly with key figures in government.

In January 2021, Acosta was appointed CNN’s anchor and chief domestic correspondent, further expanding his influence in the media landscape. After a successful tenure, he announced his departure from CNN in January 2025 to explore new opportunities, leaving behind a legacy of fearless journalism and a commitment to holding power accountable.