CNN host backs MAGA rep into a corner over his war excuses: ‘Voters do not agree’

Rep. Buddy Carter (R-GA) tried to argue on CNN that the war with Iran must continue because Iran is a grave threat, only to be reminded by anchor Brianna Keilar that President Donald Trump's war instigated that threat in the first place.

Carter acknowledged voters don’t agree with the Iran war but defended its purpose, saying Republicans’ midterm losses stem from prices tied to preventing Iran from getting a nuclear bomb.

Keilar noted that Carter had defended Trump’s Iran policy on her program in July and September, and that Vice President JD Vance blamed the war for Republicans’ losses. Asked whether it should end soon, Carter said, “We all want it to end,” adding that the conflict has lasted 47 years and Iranians chant “death to America.”

"Voters do not agree,” said Keilar — to which Carter admitted, “You’re absolutely right.” He said Republicans lost because of gas and grocery prices, which he said is a sacrifice necessary to stop Iran from getting the bomb.

Keilar then cited a “60 Minutes” interview in which, she said, Trump dismissed the idea that Iran has nuclear material, saying “they have nothing.” She asked why the U.S. is continuing the war on nuclear grounds. Carter said he doesn’t have access to the administration’s intelligence, trusts the president and believes Iran is trying to build ballistic missiles that could reach the U.S.

Keilar cited a Reuters/Ipsos poll showing 71 percent of Americans and even 51 percent of Republicans want Congress to end the war. Carter said he isn’t calling the public wrong but wants Iran “decimated” so it can’t hold the Strait of Hormuz hostage and manipulate gas prices. Keilar said the strait wasn’t a problem before the war.

When Carter said, “If you want to continue to defend the leading state sponsor of terrorism... I’m not going to,” Keilar replied, she was quoting the president, not defending Iran.

- YouTube youtu.be