A report by the New York Post states that White House press secretary Karine Jean-Pierre requested not to be interviewed by Don Lemon on “CNN This Morning” last week. Co-host Poppy Harlow interviewed Jean-Pierre.
Sources speculated that Jean-Pierre’s decision might have been influenced by Lemon’s recent on-air gaffes or possibly tense on-air exchanges in the past. The White House later denied Jean-Pierre’s request, stating that she did not express concerns about Lemon.
“He’s just a constant f—–g distraction,” a network insider told the paper.
Lemon has been scrutinized for a sexist rant about Nikki Haley, which caused Harlow to walk off the set. Lemon also questioned President Joe Biden’s mental fitness, resulting in a testy exchange with Jean-Pierre. When asked to comment on Lemon’s remarks, Jean-Pierre emphasized Biden’s record of elevating women and refused to engage with Lemon’s line of questioning.
“We’re not going to detail our conversations with any media outlets, but as always, the anchor is the network’s call and not ours,” a rep for Jean-Pierre told the paper.
Lemon defended his questioning, stating that it is his job as a journalist to ask about the health and mental fitness of the president of the United States. However, he has faced backlash for his behavior, including calls for resignation and allegations of misogynistic behavior.
The decision to have Harlow conduct the interview was made independently by CNN, according to a spokesperson. Jean-Pierre’s reps did not provide any further explanation for her request.
