"Kill the messenger" is a commonly heard response reacting to the typical Trump administration approach to the media.  If you're unable to muster a counter-argument or  a sensible response to "bad news", instead attack the "source" of that news. Work to delegetimize the media and, thereby, delegetimize the message....."FAKE NEWS" from the "lamestream" media.  

Trump and his associates apply the same crude tactic to any individuals who might present, or could present in the future, information reflecting unfavorably on him.  His attacks on Robert Mueller and his team of investigators are, of course, designed to pre-emptively undercut the validity of any findings of the investigation.  Additionally, of course, they might be used to justify efforts to remove Mr. Mueller from his position as special counsel.  (cont)