CNN's Jake Tapper has called out MSNBC for its deceptive coverage of the Republican National Convention, accusing the network of using an LED screen to make it appear as though its anchors were on the ground in Milwaukee when they were actually in a New York studio.
CNN's Jake Tapper has unleashed a scathing attack on MSNBC over its decision to use a large LED screen to cover the Republican National Convention (RNC) from a New York studio, accusing the network of misleading viewers into believing that its anchors were present at the event in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Tapper's comments came after The New York Times reported that MSNBC hosts Rachel Maddow, Nicolle Wallace, Jen Psaki, Joy Reid, and others had been broadcasting from a studio in Midtown Manhattan, with a live feed of the convention projected behind them.
MSNBC's Sneaky RNC Coverage: Using LED Screens to Deceive Viewers
"We are here live, as opposed to some other networks that just have a big LED, who shall remain nameless," Tapper quipped during an interview with Florida Republican Senator Marco Rubio on Thursday.
The Times described the arrangement as "unorthodox," noting that it created a "trompe l'oeil" effect, making it appear as though the MSNBC anchors were covering the convention in person.
MSNBC's Sneaky RNC Coverage: Using LED Screens to Deceive Viewers
MSNBC had previously announced that Maddow and other top political anchors would not travel to Milwaukee for the convention, instead sending Stephanie Ruhle and Katy Tur to cover the event in person.
In response to Tapper's criticism, an MSNBC spokesperson told the Times that "at the top of every broadcast, hosts identify themselves as being in New York or at MSNBC headquarters."
MSNBC's Sneaky RNC Coverage: Using LED Screens to Deceive Viewers
However, critics argue that the live video feed of a bustling convention behind the anchors sends a different impression to viewers tuning in throughout the night.
Tapper's comments reflect a growing trend of criticism against MSNBC for its perceived bias against conservatives and its reliance on liberal commentators to provide political analysis.
The network has been accused of downplaying the significance of the RNC and focusing on negative stories about President Trump, while giving less attention to the Democratic National Convention (DNC) and the Biden campaign.
MSNBC has defended its coverage of the RNC, arguing that it is providing a fair and balanced perspective on the event. However, the network's decision to use an LED screen to cover the convention has raised questions about its commitment to journalistic integrity and transparency.
As the 2024 election cycle heats up, it remains to be seen whether MSNBC will continue to face criticism for its coverage of political events, particularly as more networks explore the use of virtual and augmented reality technology to enhance their broadcasts.
