Radio host Charlamagne tha God has publicly criticized CNN for its coverage of Donald Trump, arguing that the network often focuses on the “wrong conversation” regarding the former president. This commentary came during an episode of his popular podcast, The Breakfast Club, which aired shortly before his interview with Vice President Kamala Harris.
Charlamagne expressed frustration with CNN’s reporting on a recent rally held by Trump at Madison Square Garden, where comedian Tony Hinchcliffe made derogatory remarks about Puerto Rico. He pointed out that CNN’s coverage seemed to treat such incendiary rhetoric as normal. “I was watching CNN yesterday, and I’m not gonna say the anchor’s name, but they were talking about the MAGA rally at the Garden, and they were talking about it like it was just normal,” he stated.
In his critique, Charlamagne highlighted a broader issue with CNN’s handling of Trump and his affiliates, stating, “We’re almost 10 years into the Trump era, and they still don’t know how to cover that demon.” He emphasized that the network often fails to address the underlying themes of white supremacy associated with Trump and his supporters. He further lamented how CNN often distracts viewers with irrelevant topics, as exemplified by a recent segment where a pundit questioned whether Vice President Harris should appear on Joe Rogan’s podcast.
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Charlamagne also took issue with CNN’s cross-aisle discussions, which he believes lack genuine dialogue. He referenced a troubling incident where a conservative panelist made a derogatory remark suggesting that a Muslim panelist was linked to Hezbollah, which led to that individual’s removal from the discussion. “They will have a conservative who’s not there to have a good faith discussion,” he said, criticizing how such exchanges derail meaningful conversations and shift focus away from important issues.
Stressing that many news networks, including CNN, are primarily driven by ratings and revenue, Charlamagne noted, “MAGA makes money.” He likened CNN’s approach to a chef sprinkling seasoning on a dish, suggesting that the network deliberately injects “MAGA” elements into its programming to attract viewers. “They’re like Salt Bae, whoever the leadership is at the top. They are just sprinkling that Old MAGA Bay seasoning all over CNN.”
Despite his criticism, Charlamagne acknowledged that some hosts at CNN genuinely aim to inform the public about the risks posed by Trump. Following his critique, he transitioned to his interview with Vice President Harris, where she addressed the political landscape just one week before Election Day. During this segment, Harris took the opportunity to challenge billionaire Jeff Bezos over his decision to withhold The Washington Post’s presidential endorsement.
