A black CNN analyst was accused of “anti-blackness” on air Thursday — after merely saying that he “understands” Donald Trump’s views on immigration.
Pro-Kamala Harris guest Michael Blake’s claim about co-worker Shermichael Singleton caused the segment to be abruptly canceled – as their ensuing argument became increasingly heated.
It started when host John Berman asked both men about a possible path to citizenship for immigrants, derailing the broadcast.
Singleton, a Republican, is a frequent guest on the network’s shows. He has been known to tackle tough topics without an agenda, and his seemingly good-natured words quickly earned Blake’s ire.
The latter is the former vice chairman of the DNC and previously served as an aide to the Obama administration.
Shermichael Singleton was accused on air Thursday of “anti-blackness” — after merely saying he “understands” Donald Trump’s views on immigration
Pro-Kamala Harris guest Michael Blake (left)’s claim about the contributor caused the segment to be abruptly canceled – as their subsequent argument became increasingly heated
“How do you think they should approach that or what do you think the parameters might be?” the former New York Assembly member began, prompting Singleton to quote a 1988 article by Harris’ economist father, 86-year-old Donald Harris.
In it, the emeritus professor at Stanford University described a link between high numbers of illegal immigration and increased competition between lower-educated workers.
Singleton in turn categorized the paper as “fascinating” – before explaining how he understands Trump’s use of the same argument in support of his views on immigration.
Before provoking an immediate response from his fellow guest, who is also black, Singleton explained, “I think most Americans would say, that’s an approach that seems logical.
“I can see it as systematic,” he continued. ‘It makes perfect sense.
‘You don’t hurt people, you don’t tear people apart or families apart’
This cleared the way for an irate Blake, who was then told by Blake that he only had 15 seconds left.
It started when host John Berman asked both men about a possible path to citizenship for immigrants — derailing the broadcast.
Singleton, a Republican, is a frequent guest on the network’s shows. He has been known to tackle tough topics without an agenda, and his kind words quickly earned Blake the wrath
He caught Blake off guard when he cited an argument from an article by economist Donald Harris, Kamala, as “fascinating” – before explaining how he understands Trump’s use of the same argument in support of his views on immigration.
“The anti-Blackness just expressed in Sir Michael’s comments is deeply concerning,” the Bronx resident began, after previously attempting to interrupt Singleton.
“The reference he just used is the vice president’s father when he talked about anti-illegal immigrant policies,” he continued.
‘Let’s be very clear. There is one entity that has driven this, and this is Donald Trump. And that’s why Democrats must fight against that every step of the way.”
Seemingly unconvinced, Singleton intervened.
“Well, Michael, John – I mean, most Americans are concerned about immigration.
“I have not had any anti-black policies,” he added, before clarifying, “Michael, you are not talking to Donald Trump.”
This drew vitriol from Blake, who claimed Singleton only used Harris’ father as an example because he was black.
A visibly irritated Singleton shot back: “I can list a litany of examples, Michael – let’s not call BS this morning – immigration is an issue.”
A former Obama aide who also served in New York’s 79th Assembly District as a New York State Assemblyman, Blake considers “fighting for his community and all communities like it” his most important mission, according to his website.
In an attempt to undermine the incipient battle when it had already begun, Berman jumped in and stopped the broadcast with a seemingly improvised sign-off.
“We need to end this discussion here. We will have it. We’ll have it in the next few months,” said Berman — who jokingly added, “And it looks a lot like the next few years for Michael.”
The segment ended there, serving as just one of many examples of escalating tensions and progressive panelists playing the blame game in the wake of Harris’ loss.
The day before, CNN contributor Julie Roginsky criticized audience members and her own colleagues during the segment, chiding them for pointing fingers instead of actually thinking.
The segment also included Singleton, who seemed to agree with what Roginsky said.
The argument was triggered after another on-air contributor asked the 51-year-old if she thought Biden should have dropped out of the race sooner — as if that was the cause of Trump’s big win.
Blake – seen here in 2018 at a New York event while vice chairman of the DNC, claimed Singleton only used Harris’ father as an example because he was black – sparking anger from his fellow panelist
Roginsky went on to explain why she believes the Democratic Party has become increasingly out of touch, before seemingly reminding audience members of Trump’s unceremonious anger at Hillary Clinton.
Blake, meanwhile, writes on his website how he considers “fighting for his community and all communities like it” his most important mission in life, and praises his involvement with the team that passed the Affordable Care Act as an Obama aide.
In 2014, Blake was elected to represent New York’s 79th Assembly District as a New York State Assemblyman, before serving as vice chairman of the nominating convention responsible for advancing Harris as a candidate.