ON POLITICS

President Trump on Gianforte's election: 'Great win in Montana'

Jessica Estepa

USA TODAY

Republican Greg Gianforte speaks to supporters after being declared the winner at a election night party for Montana's special House election against Democrat Rob Quist at the Hilton Garden Inn on May 25, 2017 in Bozeman, Montana.

President Trump on Friday praised the win of Republican Greg Gianforte in Montana's special election.

"Great win in Montana," Trump said without being asked, according to pool reports. The president is in Sicily for a meeting with G7 leaders.

Gianforte's win for the Treasure State's lone seat in on Thursday night came after he was charged for assaulting Guardian reporter Ben Jacobs. The Republican apologized about the incident, saying he "learned a lesson."

“I should not have responded the way I did and for that I am sorry," Gianforte said.

Trump has his own contentious relationship with the press, often calling reputed media organizations "fake news."