Why President Trump desperately needs to keep conservative media outlets on his side

For President Donald Trump, it is critical that Alex Jones and other backers in the conservative media continue to look on the bright side — and continue to tell the president's base to do the same.

Despite these reversals and shortcomings, Trump's base is standing by him. No single factor can fully explain loyalty, but positive spin in the conservative press is surely a big one. The message Trump voters have heard over and over is that their man deserves a long leash. So far, they seem willing to give him one. But things could change if commentators like Jones, Limbaugh and Hannity were to turn on Trump. The White House seems to understand the stakes.