CNN faced significant backlash after airing an interview with a masked member of the Sinaloa Cartel, who reportedly surprisingly expressed respect for President Trump rather than criticizing him, as the network had likely hoped.
The interview, conducted by correspondent Isobel Yeung in a concealed location in Mexico, aimed to discuss Trump’s designation of the cartel as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.
While discussing the cartel’s activities, the masked gangster acknowledged the harsh realities of their operations, stating, “Well, the situation is ugly, but we have to eat.”
When asked about Trump’s terrorist label, he responded with, “My respect. According to him, he’s looking out for his people,” highlighting that the issue lies with the drug consumers in the U.S.
Social media users quickly mocked CNN for what many perceived as an attempt to elicit negative comments about Trump that backfired spectacularly.
One user noted, “CNN tried to create a scandal and accidentally gave Trump a campaign ad. You can’t script this kind of desperation.”
Others pointed out the irony of allowing a cartel member to voice grievances about the terrorist label while ultimately defending Trump.
Senator Mike Lee (R-UT) added to the criticism, suggesting that CNN should experience life under the rule of drug traffickers to truly understand the situation.
The Sinaloa Cartel’s classification as a Foreign Terrorist Organization allows for enhanced federal actions against its operations, including financial sanctions and immigration restrictions.
This incident underscores the challenges media outlets face when attempting to navigate sensitive topics, particularly when interviewing individuals connected to violent criminal organizations.
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