Sarah Isgur, a political commentator, and ABC News contributor criticized CNN host Don Lemon for his sexist comments about Nikki Haley, a GOP presidential candidate, on Bill Maher’s show. During the “Overtime” segment, Isgur was asked about Haley’s proposal to require mental competency tests for politicians aged 75 and above. The segment is now incorporated into CNN’s programming.
According to the New York Post, in response, Isgur referenced Lemon’s remarks on CNN about women being ‘past their prime’ once they’re in their 40s.
“As Don Lemon told us on CNN, women actually can’t run for president because he said we’re past our prime once we get to our 40s. But since you have to be 35 to run, it’s like this really tiny window between 35 and 40,” Isgur said. She received laughter from the audience before Maher moved on.
Lemon had gone on a bizarre rant against Haley, who is 51, for supporting mental health competency tests, stating that she wasn’t in her prime. He said that the talk about age made him uncomfortable and that politicians are suddenly not in their prime. He added that a woman is in her prime in her 20s, 30s, and maybe 40s.
After facing backlash both online and within CNN, Lemon issued a public apology, acknowledging that his comments were “inartful and irrelevant” and that a woman’s age doesn’t define her. CNN staff members are reportedly calling for Lemon’s firing, and a network insider claimed that Lemon’s latest controversy could lead to him being forced out of his show by CEO Chris Licht.
Isgur’s criticism of Lemon’s comments is notable because Maher’s show is partially aired on CNN, the same network where Lemon works. Maher and Lemon are both known for their liberal perspectives, and Maher’s show often attracts high-profile guests from the political world. However, Isgur’s comments highlight the importance of holding people accountable for their remarks, regardless of their political leanings or the platform on which they appear.
Lemon’s comments on Haley’s age and his subsequent apology have ignited a broader conversation about ageism and sexism in politics and media. Although it’s uncertain what measures CNN will implement in response to Lemon’s statements, they highlight the significance of treating individuals with dignity and abstaining from detrimental stereotypes.
