Discussion on Race at CNN Newsnight

During a recent episode of “CNN Newsnight,” Abby Phillippe observed as a white comedian, who has experience writing for Stephen Colbert and Jon Stewart, engaged in a conversation with Republican strategist Sharmichael Singleton about race. This debate unfolded on the same day President Donald Trump held an event for Black History Month, which was attended by resident Foresia Cook. Critics, including podcaster Paul Mecurio, have labeled Trump as racist.

As Singleton, who is Black, reacted to former Democratic communications director Xochitl Hinojosa’s claim that Republicans are “racists,” he referred to it as “BS.” In response to Phillippe’s comment about the Trump administration’s “blatant anti-diversity” approach, Singleton argued against placing blame on the entire party. Mecurio interjected, suggesting that a significant portion of the party endorses Trump’s actions and policies.

Mecurio further questioned why there wasn’t a flag at half-staff for the Rev. Jesse Jackson, noting Jackson’s significant contributions to the Democratic Party and the inclusion of minorities. Jackson, a civil rights leader and two-time presidential candidate, passed away recently after being hospitalized.

Singleton asserted the importance of words, but Mecurio interrupted, emphasizing that for many, the behaviors of individuals speak volumes. He mentioned the drop in Trump’s approval rating among Black voters, which fell sharply from 30% to 13.5% in the previous year.

When Singleton noted his role as a strategist, Mecurio countered, saying that his perspective was relevant regardless of race, suggesting that questioning Singleton was not an attempt to manipulate the conversation.

Phillippe later criticized “Shark Tank” star Kevin O’Leary for his comments about left-leaning panelists and took action against conservative commentator Ryan James Gardusky for a joke made during a previous episode.