Baltimore Mayor Discusses Local Issues on CNN

Baltimore’s Mayor Brandon Scott appeared on CNN’s “The Lead” on Tuesday, where he expressed some strong opinions about the media portrayal of his city. He noted, “We’re just having that argument because the president is having that argument,” and emphasized that he doesn’t read the Baltimore Sun, which he referred to as part of the president’s “propaganda machine.”

Host Jake Tapper challenged him, suggesting he likely did read it. Recently, a conversation took place among residents highlighted in a Baltimore Sun article. Many expressed that they hardly recognize their own neighborhoods anymore. A 77-year-old woman from Curtis Bay, who wished to remain anonymous due to safety concerns, compared the local drug activity to a fast-food drive-thru. She shared that a real estate agent told her she couldn’t sell her home because of the visible drug traffic nearby. Recognizing the risks, she stated, “I’m going to get hurt one day, I know it.” The article pointed out that while crime statistics may indicate improvement, the lived experience of many residents tells a different story.

Scott continued to defend his position, saying he’s deeply connected to the community and understands the challenges they face. He recalled his past as a young councilman involved in anti-violence initiatives before the unrest following Freddie Gray’s death. “This isn’t just talk for me; it’s the life I’ve lived,” he remarked. He acknowledged that while changes take time and that they won’t erase these issues overnight, there’s a partnership with the community aimed at improvement. Reflecting on the progress since 2015 and even back to 1993, when he was just nine years old, he noted that while strides have been made, there’s still a long way to go.

In response to Scott, Tapper pointed out potential flaws in his views, suggesting that while the editorial stance of the Baltimore Sun might lean conservative, its news coverage can be considered reliable.