CNN Bans Pro-Trump Commentator After Offensive 'Beeper' Remark

CNN banned a right-wing commentator who made an offensive comment against another guest that referenced an attack on Hezbollah on Monday's edition of “NewsNight with Abby Phillip.”

Ryan Girdusky, a political strategist and supporter of former President Trump, made the remark in a heated exchange with panelist Mehdi Hasan about the Republican presidential candidate's Sunday rally at Madison Square Garden in New York. Vulgar and racist statements made by several speakers at the event sparked significant backlash.

After Hasan commented, Girdusky said, “I hope your pager doesn't go off” – a reference to the use of mobile communications devices to kill Hezbollah members in Lebanon on September 17. Israeli intelligence reportedly set off the mobile device's explosives, injuring up to 3,000 Hezbollah members and others. At least a dozen people were killed in this attack

Hasan, a Muslim, is a vocal supporter of the Palestinian cause on television shows and on his own news site Zeteo. He was visibly stunned by the comment.

“Did your guest just say on live TV that I should be killed?” Hasan said to Phillip.

After a commercial break, Phillip apologized to Hasan and the audience. She also announced that Girdusky would not be returning.

“As we begin this discussion, you will see that Ryan is not at the table,” Phillip said. “A line was crossed that is not acceptable to me. This is unacceptable for this network.”

“Did your guest just say on live television that I should be killed?” Mehdi Hasan asked after the remark.

(NBC News)

In recent months, CNN has transformed “NewsNight” into a conflict-driven talk show — reminiscent of the network’s long-running “Crossfire,” which ended in 2005 — with experts offering opposing viewpoints. Discussions on the show often turn angry, with guests talking over each other while Phillip tries to maintain control.

In a statement, CNN said there was “no room for racism or bigotry at CNN or on our show” and that Girdursky would not be invited back to the network.

“Our goal is to promote thoughtful conversations and debates, even between people who have deeply different opinions, to explore important issues and promote mutual understanding,” CNN said.

Girdusky tried to apologize on the radio. He later appeared defiant on social media site X. “Apparently you can’t go on CNN if you make a joke,” he wrote. “I’m glad America sees what CNN stands for.”