As billionaire George Soros remains a controversial figure for his ties to far-left causes, many critics are quick to bring up his name in connection with a host of radical movements.
Former U.S. House Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-GA), however, was shut down during a recent Fox News Channel appearance when he brought up the financier’s name in a segment that was followed by an apology from the moderating host, as reported by The Hill.
“Elected with George Soros’ money”
The exchange occurred during Wednesday’s episode of Outnumbered as part of a discussion of ongoing protests that have turned destructive and violent in communities across the nation.
“Progressive district attorneys are anti-police, pro-criminal, and overwhelmingly elected with George Soros’ money,” Gingrich said.
Going on to assert that such prosecutors are “a major cause of the violence we’re seeing because they keep putting the violent criminals back on the street,” his argument was soon cut off midstream.
“I’m not sure we need to bring George Soros into this,” said co-host Melissa Francis.
Harris Faulkner attempted to intervene, stating that she “was going to say you get the last word, speaker,” but co-host Marie Harf did not allow that to happen. Gingrich began to defend himself, referencing the “millions of dollars” Soros has donated, but Harf interjected.
“A little incident on the show”
“No, he didn’t,” she said. “I agree with Melissa. George Soros doesn’t need to be a part of this conversation.”
Following widespread criticism of the co-hosts’ behavior during the segment, Faulkner addressed the issue in an on-air statement the following day.
“So, we had a little incident on the show yesterday that was not smooth,” she said on Thursday. “And while I was leading that segment, we had interruptions, and I sat silently while all of that played out. Also not ideal.”
Asserting that hosts “don’t censor on this show,” Faulkner acknowledged that the “beloved” guest “needed to be allowed to speak with the openness and respect that this show is all about” but instead “was interrupted.”
Her willingness to openly and thoughtfully address the situation will likely go a long way among those who were initially upset by the manner in which Gingrich was treated during his appearance.
The post 'Outnumbered' co-host apologizes after Gingrich 'interrupted' for mentioning George Soros first appeared on Conservative Institute.
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