'MAGA Reacts to CNN's Jake Tapper Misidentifying J6 Pipe Bomb Suspect as 'White' with 'WTF?!'

During Thursdays broadcast of The Lead, CNN anchor Jake Tapper faced criticism after incorrectly identifying Brian Cole Jr., a recently apprehended January 6 pipe bomb suspect, as white. Moments later, the show displayed images of Cole Jr. that clearly contradicted Tappers description.

Tapper described Cole Jr. as a 30-year-old white man from the D.C. suburbs while reporting that he had been charged with transporting an explosive device across state lines and committing malicious destruction through explosion. The broadcast then featured photos revealing that the suspect did not match this racial description.

Fox News host Jesse Watters and various right-wing commentators quickly highlighted the mistake, sharing clips of Tappers misidentification online and sparking widespread discussion:

• Nick Sortor commented on social media that CNN attempted to avoid showing the suspects actual image, overlaying a photo to clarify his appearance.
• Benny Johnson and Greg Price posted similar reactions, emphasizing the inaccuracy of Tappers racial claim.
• Eric Daugherty and Libs of TikTok also drew attention to the discrepancy, questioning the anchors on-air statement.

Cole was arrested Thursday morning, almost five years after surveillance footage captured a masked individual placing explosive devices outside both Democratic and Republican party offices in Washington, D.C. Authorities connected him to the crime using license plate information and cell tower records.

Attorney General Pam Bondi praised the arrest, stating, Todays arrest was the result of good, diligent police work and collaboration on a case that languished for four years under the prior administration. The American people are safer thanks to this mornings successful operation.

CNN has not issued a public statement addressing Tappers on-air error.

Author: Benjamin Carter