Kayleigh McEnany demands arrest of CBS reporter Scott Pelley after anti-Trump speech goes viral
Former White House Press Secretary McEnany lashes out at Scott Pelley’s Wake Forest speech criticizing Trump and US journalism.
Former White House Press Secretary Kayleigh McEnany and Fox News host Greg Gutfeld gave CBS correspondent Scott Pelley a stern rebuke after his viral commencement speech at Wake Forest University. During the speech, Pelley warned graduates of peril to journalism, free speech, and the rule of law in what he described as "Trump's America," prompting a backlash from conservative commentators.
On Fox News' "The Five," Gutfeld attributed the spreading of misinformation to Pelley and wondered why he hadn't been arrested for his comments. McEnany said the same thing, adding that "he should have been" arrested for providing what she called "an overt lie" during the ceremony.
Pelley’s speech highlights attacks on journalism and civil rights
Scott Pelley in his May 19 speech did not refer to President Donald Trump by name but commented on rising issues that are affecting universities, journalism, and civil liberties. He mentioned specific cases like the unwarranted arrest of Tufts University student Rümeysa Öztürk and expressed fears over government excesses.
Pelley's remarks attracted fire amidst a time of ongoing controversy over CBS News, such as a $20 billion lawsuit reportedly in negotiation over how the network handled an interview with Kamala Harris. Despite controversy, Wake Forest University had positive things to say about the speech, pointing to Pelley's challenge to graduates to fight ignorance and uphold truth.
Political divides intensify at University commencement speeches
The reaction to Pelley's speech reflects a wider trend of politicized and contentious college commencements across the US. Conservatives have criticized what they see as politicization of traditionally festive events, while others argue such platforms highlight important societal concerns.
Some of the more politically charged commencements this year have included protests against pro-Palestinian statements at Columbia University and outrage over a speech by Kansas City Chiefs kicker Harrison Butker. Other colleges and universities have avoided politics altogether, such as the University of Maryland's lighthearted ceremony featuring Kermit the Frog.
