by Mary Chastain
The left and media claim President Donald Trump refused to denounce white supremacy.
The debate transcript tells a different story.
Trump refused to condemn white supremacists and militia members in presidential debate marked by disputes over race https://t.co/HfC6EVvA2B
— The Washington Post (@washingtonpost) September 30, 2020
WATCH: President Trump says TWO TIMES he's willing to condemn white supremacists and militia groups.
"Sure, I'm willing to do that." pic.twitter.com/xWTVWxITNa
— Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) September 30, 2020
The facts (see the transcript):
1. Trump said "sure" (twice) when asked to condemn white supremacists.
2. Wallace introduced the "stand" language.
3. Biden brought up the "Proud Boys."
4. Biden then refused to condemn Antifa.https://t.co/XVJXTVAjkj— Joel Pollak (@joelpollak) September 30, 2020
As Emily Jashinsky at The Federalist noted, you can have issues with how Trump handled the question.
That debate was garbage but this is the actual transcript of the white supremacy exchange. Trump didn't "refuse" to denounce white supremacy, as much of the media is now saying. Look at his first reply.
Sure, take issue with how he handled the q, but don't misinform people. pic.twitter.com/TIg2WSxKVj
— Emily Jashinsky (@emilyjashinsky) September 30, 2020
After he said “sure” I think he should have expanded on the answer. But you cannot change the definition of “sure.” Chris Wallace asked Trump if he was willing to condemn white supremacy. Trump said “sure.”
Then Trump said, “Yes, I am willing to do it.”
Trump said “sure” and “yes.” Therefore he answered the question. Should he have gone further? Yes.
But do not misinform people about his answer. Saying “willing” does not mean Trump “refused” to condemn white supremacy.