Rep. Tom Emmer (R-Minn.) clashed with a CNN reporter on Wednesday, suggesting that liberal media outlets give a "pass" to Democratic politicians like Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.
Rep. Tom Emmer (R-Minn.), the House Majority Whip, engaged in a heated exchange with a CNN host on Wednesday, accusing the mainstream media of giving a "pass" to Democratic politicians like Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz.
During an appearance on "CNN News Central," Emmer described Walz as a "left-wing radical," who despite his "affable Midwesterner" persona, has overseen a decline in the state.
House Whip Accuses Mainstream Media of Giving Democrats a "Pass
"In just six short years in my state of Minnesota, we've seen taxes skyrocket, violent crime at record highs, and Minnesota families are worse off," Emmer said. "Literally, [Walz] is incredibly pulling the ticket to the far left."
CNN host Sara Sidner pressed Emmer on why, despite his criticism, Walz was re-elected by Minnesotans. When Emmer continued to criticize Walz's record, Sidner interrupted him, instructing him to "answer the question."
House Whip Accuses Mainstream Media of Giving Democrats a "Pass
"Why do you think Minnesotans re-elected him with all the things that you're saying about him, that are negative and attacking some of the things that he has done policy-wise, not personality-wise," Sidner said. "Because you agree that he's got a pretty big, affable personality, but why do you think Minnesotans seemed to disagree with you about what he has done in their state?"
Emmer chuckled and implored Sidner to visit Minnesota to witness the situation firsthand. However, Sidner insisted on an explanation based on election results.
House Whip Accuses Mainstream Media of Giving Democrats a "Pass
"Much like Kamala Harris, Sara, the media – the mainstream media gives these people a pass," Emmer replied. "They don't call out what they actually stand for."
Walz's selection as Vice President Kamala Harris's running mate was met with mixed reactions. While some progressives applauded the choice, others raised concerns that it may alienate centrist voters.
Former Ohio governor and MSNBC contributor John Kasich expressed surprise at the selection of Walz, believing that it would push the Democratic ticket further to the left. MSNBC's Charlie Sykes echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the party was prioritizing its progressive base at the expense of Pennsylvania, a crucial swing state.
Alyssa Farah Griffin, a co-host of "The View" and CNN political commentator, described the choice as an "extraordinary missed opportunity." She highlighted pros and cons of Walz, noting that he was not viewed as a moderating force on the Democratic ticket.
Fox News' Hanna Panreck contributed to this report.
