It was the fraught first CNN appearance by Republican Representative Troy Nehls — who inspired an almost immediate outcry by calling veteran host Erin Burnett “Miss young”.
The interview was conducted amid continued turmoil as Republicans continue to disagree about Who will become the next Speaker of the House of Representatives? Nehls, a supporter of Representative Kevin McCarthy (R-CA), also quipped about his first trip on “Clinton News Network”—a comment that Burnett claimed was “a bit rude.”
Just before the confrontation, the CNN host asked Nehls if his party’s negotiators, such as Representative Patrick McHenry (R-NC) had made any progress on winning. No. people like Lauren Boebert (R-CO) and Matt Gaetz (R-FL).
“He was trying to garner support for McCarthy for the Speaker position, and he was just saying that the House is probably not going to adjourn anytime soon,” Burnett said. “Are you ready to go all night?”
Nehls replied that he “could be here until July,” prompting Burnett to later ask if he was determined to stick with McCarthy.
“I don’t know if you know, young lady, but I am also a member of the House Freedom Caucus. So I was one of the first patriots in America,” Nehls said. (Republicans who opposed McCarthy’s candidacy, like Boebert and Gaetz, also came from that caucus.)
“I have told friends — my colleagues in the Freedom Caucus — that I do not believe this is a war we should wage,” he continued. “I think the real battle begins when we begin drafting legislation and policy at the 118th Congress under President McCarthy.”
If Nehls’ comment was malicious, Burnett, 46, gave him a chance to admit it.
“I suppose when you call me a young girl, that’s a compliment,” she said.
“Of course,” Nehls replied, immediately adding: “This is my first time on the Clinton News Network. Sure.”
“Okay. I would say that’s a little – in my opinion – rude,” Burnett replied. “But I’m glad you’re talking to me, and I’ll treat you with the respect you deserve.”
