Ron Johnson links critical race theory to Trump shooting during CNN interview

During an interview with CNN's Jake Tapper the morning after there was an attempt on Donald Trump's life at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, Sen. Ron Johnson (R-WI) called for a lowering of temperatures on both sides of the political divide before attempting to explain what may have motivated the shooter.

During that attempt, he singled out critical race theory, long a feature of GOP lawmakers attempting to rile up their base.

"One thing that I have found upsetting," host Tapper promoted, "If I can editorialize for one second, is the degree to which so many Americans claim to love their country but hate their fellow Americans and I'm not talking about Republicans or Democrats."

"I'm just — I see it everywhere, everywhere and I'm wondering if that's something that concerns you too?" he asked.

"It does, that's why I said the greatest threat to our nation right now is we're horribly divided," Johnson replied. "But again, in general, we share the same goals, so why are we so divided?"

"Well, there are political figures, their political groups. I would argue that's what identity politics is about, that's what critical race theory is about, so there are people who are purposely trying to divide us for political advantage," he claimed. "Resist it, don't let them get away with it. And, again, start talking to each other. That's part of the problem with social media today as we've lost a sense of community."

You can watch the video below or at the link.

CNN 07 14 2024 09 17 20 youtu.be