CNN commentator Scott Jennings faced backlash Monday after attempting to defend former President Donald Trump regarding a comment made by Sen. Jon Ossoff (D-Ga.) about White House aide Natalie Harp. Jennings accused Ossoff of sexism for an on-air remark about Harp, who frequently accompanies Trump.
During a Sunday appearance, Ossoff described Trump as unwilling to lead the country, stating, "He wants to build his ballroom and travel with Natalie on their apparently defenseless flying palace gifted by the emir of Qatar." The comment drew a strong reaction from the White House and was subsequently characterized by Jennings as sexist.
"This is quite a message for the Democratic Party to send to young women working in politics," Jennings posted on X, formerly Twitter. "Party of women? Pretty ugly stuff." He also labeled Ossoff a "coward" and urged him to "Own your sexist joke."
However, critics quickly pointed to Trump's extensive record of remarks and actions that have been labeled misogynistic. These include the "Access Hollywood" tape, where Trump made lewd comments about women, and instances where he allegedly insulted female reporters. He reportedly told Bloomberg's Catherine Lucey to "Quiet, piggy!" and questioned CBS News' Nancy Cordes' intelligence. Trump also called New York Times reporter Katie Rogers "ugly" and admonished CNN's Kaitlan Collins for not smiling.
Furthermore, a jury found Trump liable for sexual abuse and defamation in a civil case brought by writer E. Jean Carroll, leading to a $5 million award. Trump also had a past association with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
In response to Jennings' comments, several social media users highlighted Trump's history. "Somehow I don’t think you gave af about Trump being openly misogynistic cuz a woman asked him a question he didn’t like. But you’ll screech and holler like a hit dog over this," one user posted. Another remarked, "grab em by the pussy, and be quiet piggy." Others referenced Trump's liability in the E. Jean Carroll case and his past remarks, questioning Jennings' focus on Ossoff's comment.