Jesse Watters claims Trump 'ripped the news cycle' out of Harris' hands after contentious NABJ interview

WASHINGTON, DC: Fox News host Jesse Watters recently discussed former President Donald Trump's appearance at the National Black Journalists' Convention in Chicago on 'Jesse Watters Primetime,' highlighting the significance of the event.

According to Watters, Trump’s engagement with several Black journalists was a deliberate move to demonstrate his commitment to addressing issues within the Black community, contrasting sharply with Vice President Kamala Harris' absence.

Jesse Watters critiques Harris' absence at NABJ

Watters remarked, “Donald Trump ripped the news cycle right out of Kamala's hands. That exchange is going to be seen by millions of Black Americans, it'll be seen by everyone. And how they react to it will decide the country's future. This is like the Megyn Kelly moment at the debate. Remember, 'only Rosie O'Donnell'? It's going to leave a mark. They say half of life is showing up, Donald Trump showed up. Kamala Harris didn't."

He continued, “Donald Trump didn’t have to attend the National Black Journalists’ Convention in Chicago. What just happened could even cost him votes. But he wanted to go because, as president, he wants to work for them. Kamala not showing up is taking the Black vote for granted. If you're invited into someone's house and they disrespect you, it doesn't matter who they are, what they look like, Black, female, whatever."

Jesse Watters defends Trump's tough leadership style

He further added, "Trump doesn’t tolerate disrespect. And as president, whether you like him or not, whether he makes you feel uncomfortable or not, that’s the attitude you want in a leader. Someone who works for your vote and who doesn’t allow the country to be disrespected. Might not look pretty, but it works. And his presidency proved that. Mr. Nice Guy Joe Biden and laughing Kamala Harris, politically correct, but cowards won’t stand up for our sovereignty or our safety.”

Watters also criticized the current administration, saying, “So what if Biden and Harris say all the right things and don’t make you feel anxious? The country’s a mess. Your feelings are the problem. These insecure people are so privileged that they’re putting their own personal feelings about a president’s vibe over their own countryman’s lives.”

NABJ declines Kamala Harris’ participation

According to Daily Beast the National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) rejected Vice President Kamala Harris’s request to attend this year’s convention, citing logistical conflicts such as the scheduling overlap with Rep Sheila Jackson Lee’s funeral.

Although Harris proposed participating virtually or at a later date, NABJ declined both options.

Trump’s controversial appearance at NABJ

The decision to feature former President Donald Trump, who was interviewed by ABC News reporter Rachel Scott, Fox News anchor Harris Faulkner, and Semafor reporter Kadia Goba, sparked significant controversy.

Critics pointed to Trump’s history of derogatory remarks about Black journalists and his inflammatory rhetoric as problematic. The interview, which focused on issues facing the Black community, was criticized by NABJ members as inconsistent with the organization’s values.

NABJ defends decision to invite Trump

NABJ officials defended the inclusion of Trump, citing the organization’s tradition of inviting presidential candidates during election years. They argued that the appearance offered a crucial opportunity for direct questioning, despite the backlash.

Historical context and ongoing tensions

Vice President Harris also missed the NABJ convention in 2019 as a presidential candidate but participated virtually as vice president in 2021.

The controversy surrounding this year’s event underscores ongoing tensions over the role of political figures in journalism and the challenges of balancing representation and accountability.

Social media reactions to Jesse Watters' take on Trump's NABJ appearance

On social media, reactions to Jesse Watters and Fox News's handling of Trump’s recent controversy are decidedly mixed

One user wrote, "Fox News and Jesse "red tsunami" Watters have gone full stupid."

Another user commented, "He sure did but for all the wrong reasons ha ha. Good luck in November Trumpers!"

One user said, "Trump simply reminded the world how racist and ignorant her is, not the win you think it is. that 34 minutes is going to be in so many ads."

One user replied, "That's a weird take."

Another added, "Jesse Watters is now the most hated, smarmy “news” personality. Simply hawrible."

One added, "Bwahaha that is fine with us who support Harris. His meltdown today will send more voters to Harris. Thanks Donnie."

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