CNN anchor Dana Bash slammed Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) on Sunday after he repeatedly defended Donald Trump spreading election lies while accusing the media of spreading misinformation.
The tense exchange on State of the Union began with Bash asking Scott if he would encourage Trump to stop spreading lies about the election noting that the former president is already claiming that there is fraud in Pennsylvania and predicting a massive victory despite polls suggesting it will be an incredibly close contest.
“I would never tell any candidate on the ballot to talk about what happens if they lose,” Scott responded. “Obviously you are going to lean into the victory especially —
“I appreciate that, forgive me, but spreading false rumors about fraud is not — you think it’s OK to spread false rumors about fraud and undermine the integrity of the election regardless of what happens?” Bash asked.
“The liberal media has done a better job of spreading misinformation—Scott began before he was interrupted by Bash firing back, “Oh come on senator.”
“That’s true! Here’s the fact: we’re not seeing the coverage of two assassination attempts on CNN,” Scott said.
“We did wall-to-wall coverage!” Bash shot back.
“We’re not seeing the comments about Kamala Harris talking about fascist, calling Donald Trump a fascist,” Scott continued.
Bash noted that it was Trump’s former Chief of Staff John Kelly who called him a fascist, not Harris.
“She repeated it,” Scott responded.
“Well, wouldn’t you if Kamala Harris’ former chief of staff caller her a fascist? I would guess that you would repeat it, too,” Bash said. “And Donald Trump has called him one, as well.”
Scott responded by repeating the usual Republican talking points about the Biden administration and the border.
“I want to allow you to make your point like I just did but I can’t let go of the fact that you are saying it is the media spreading claims,” Bash said. “It is not true! It is Donald Trump who is saying things.”
