CNN commentator Van Jones expressed elation over the Democratic Party's midterm election results, stating live on air that he was "happy and Donald Trump is miserable." His commentary came during CNN's election night coverage as Democrats secured control of the Senate and were projected to win the House of Representatives.
Jones's celebratory remarks were met with a visibly irked reaction from fellow panelist Scott Jennings. "Can I be happy for my party?" Jones asked rhetorically. "I don’t want to talk about Donald Trump anymore."
Despite interruptions, Jones continued to voice his satisfaction, emphasizing what he saw as significant Democratic gains. "I’m happy, you’re not going to steal my joy, I’m happy," he stated. He highlighted specific victories, including the election of the first openly gay senator from New Hampshire, Chris Pappas, the first Black female senator from Illinois, Juliana Stratton, and the fact that three Black governors would be serving simultaneously. Jones also anticipated a Black Speaker of the House.
Earlier in the broadcast, Jones described the results as "way bigger" than he had hoped for, comparing the night to "Christmas, and a birthday and the Easter Bunny, and Halloween." He characterized the outcome as "the repudiation of Trump-ism that people have been hoping for, seeing American democracy stand up."
Jones also offered a sharp critique of what he termed "kleptocratic rulers," suggesting that in America, such leaders are quickly rejected by the electorate after a short period in power.