Comedian says he prank-called Trump aboard Air Force 1

WASHINGTON (AP) — A comedian says he spoke with President Donald Trump by phone after posing as a senator and that the call was patched through while the president was aboard Air Force One.

The White House declined to discuss the incident.

Comedian John Melendez, known as "Stuttering John" from his years on "The Howard Stern Show," released audio of his prank call with Trump on his podcast last Thursday.

Melendez claimed to be Democratic Sen. Bob Menendez of New Jersey and said he was connected to Trump while the president was traveling after a Wednesday night rally in North Dakota.

On Sunday, Melendez tweeted that he had been contacted by the Secret Service for a Monday interview. He later said that he was being represented by attorney Michael Avenatti, who skyrocketed to fame earlier this year for his representation of Stormy Daniels, a porn actress who alleges an affair with Trump.

Avenatti confirmed late Sunday that Melendez was his client, adding that he had been in touch with the Secret Service, but said no interview was planned for Monday.

Asked why he took the case, Avenatti said: "I think it demonstrates the complete incompetence of the president and many of those around him. And I am concerned that he will attempt to make an example out of Mr. Melendez in an effort to repair his damaged ego."