Yup, totally fair.I think there is a difference. A real bona-fide expert standing in front of you is allowable. Having someone say "Experts are saying so and so about you" and then not being able to identify those experts when asked, is wrong.
I haven't seen the PP / reporter exchange in question, I can't speak to it. I accept what you're saying at face value.It shows lack of prep and knowledge on the subject of the question, by the reporter. Especially if you know the supposed facts of the question are false. PP wasn't punching down or being mean to a obnoxious reporter by trying to establish the facts. That reporter, who kept speaking over him, ignoring his questions and just kept repeating her false narrative got everything she deserved. Maybe next time she'll be factual and more polite when she has to ask a question. I know if it were me in PP's position the reporters acting like this would face a frosty day in hell before I called on them, or their outlet again.