Scott Jennings Challenges CNN Hosts on Tax System Remarks

Republican strategist Scott Jennings confronted CNN host Omar Jimines and Democratic strategist Maria Cardona during a discussion on Sunday, highlighting a specific statement regarding the tax policies advocated by New York City Democratic candidate Zoran Mamdani.

Mamdani has proposed raising taxes in New York’s predominantly white neighborhoods in his campaign for a Democratic nomination to run against Mayor Eric Adams. Jennings criticized Jimines for referring to the 2020 riots in Kenosha, Wisconsin, as “almost peaceful.”

Jennings remarked, “No one can walk in Manhattan after [Maria’s comment about] refunding the New York City Police Station. I will not advise anyone to walk in Manhattan now that police have been driven away.” Jimines interjected, attempting to clarify Mamdani’s position, who previously advocated for an NYPD refund but has since shifted focus to reform. Jennings continued to express his discontent.

During this exchange, Cardona interjected while Jimines was questioning Jennings’ interpretation of Mamdani’s statements. Jennings asserted, “He literally wrote it down! Are you letting him off the hook? Why?” He reiterated that Mamdani’s comments were indeed based on race.

Jennings later posted screenshots from Mamdani’s campaign website, which specifically mentioned targeting “whiter neighborhoods.” He emphasized this by sharing links from both the Jerusalem Post and New York Post, illustrating Mamdani’s intent. He concluded with a pointed remark about the necessity of clarity regarding Mamdani’s statements.