CNN Anchor Rebukes Trump Supporter For Laughing When Rioters Wore Anti-Semitic Messages

During a recent CNN NewsNight segment, anchor Abby Phillip criticized Trump backer Isabel Brown for seemingly laughing when the topic of anti-Jewish slogans displayed by some January 6 rioters arose. The exchange occurred while the panel was discussing comments from FBI Director Kash Patel regarding the arrest of Brian Cole, a suspect in a pipe-bombing case.

Patel had emphasized the gravity of attacking the U.S. Capitol, stating that such acts threaten the nation's very way of life and affirming that the FBI and Department of Justice would continue to confront such threats.

On the Thursday broadcast, Phillip moderated a panel including Charles Blow, Isabel Brown, Dan Koh, Joe Borelli, Mercedes Colwin, and Colby Hall. The conversation shifted to the January 6 events after Patels remarks. Brown laughed when Koh mentioned the Nazi symbols and phrases worn by some rioters. Phillip confronted her, but Brown claimed her laughter was about a different point, which Phillip rejected.

The discussion also touched on hypothetical comparisons between individuals involved in the Capitol breach and other cases of perceived overreach by the justice system. Phillip stressed that anyone charged and convicted of crimes on January 6 should face their sentences and, if needed, appeal them through the legal system, but should not be pardoned simply for political reasons.

Koh highlighted Patels controversial position, criticizing the juxtaposition of pardoning rioters wearing anti-Semitic messages while proposing budget cuts to the FBI. Phillip expressed surprise at Browns reaction, clarifying the seriousness of the anti-Jewish symbols displayed during the riot.

Ultimately, Phillip insisted that the discussion focused solely on those who participated in the January 6 Capitol breach, not the broader population, and concluded the segment with a reminder of the legal responsibilities facing those involved.

Author: Lucas Grant