Politics

‘Kiddo’: GOP Rep. Walsh Gets in Heated Argument With CNN Host While Defending ‘Heroes’ Remarks

There were some late fireworks on the CNN set on Thursday after CNN anchor Ashleigh Banfield got into a heated argument with GOP Rep. Joe Walsh over comments he made about his opponent’s military service.

You may remember earlier this week that Walsh was scrutinized for saying that “true heroes” don’t talk incessantly about their military service, and his opponent (a double-amputee veteran) won’t stop. Walsh appeared on CNN to defend the remarks, and things took a contentious turn when Banfield pressured him to explain himself. In fact, Walsh even at one point referred to Banfield as “kiddo.”

Politico has the blow-by-blow:

Banfield began Thursday’s interview by asking Walsh whether he regrets his recent comments.

“Oh God no, Ashleigh,” Walsh said. “I’m not going to back down, Ashleigh, from anything.”

“You’re saying this is just a slip-up?” she replied.

“No, no, Ashleigh. No, Ashleigh, this wasn’t a slip-up. I don’t regret anything I said. Understand me. Every man and woman who’s worn the uniform is a hero in my book. I’ve said that thousands of times. I’ve called Tammy Duckworth a hero hundreds of times.”

Soon enough, Walsh and Banfield were speaking over each other in a messy exchange.

“No, Ashleigh, Ashleigh, Ashleigh, Ashleigh, Ashleigh,” Walsh said at one point, trying to get a word in.

“It is not respectful for you to say, ‘Now I’m running against a woman who, my God, that’s all she talks about,” the CNN host shot back, as Walsh continued to blurt out her first name. “Let me finish, sir,” she continued. “She comes from a military family, she did lose both of her legs fighting in Iraq.”

The congressman accused Banfield of repeating Duckworth’s “talking points,” and minutes into the heated back-and-forth told Banfield: “Look, Ashleigh, I’m not going to sit here if you don’t let me talk, kiddo.”

Walsh also explained that because his opponent Tammy Duckworth is a war hero she “demands our respect but that doesn’t demand our vote.”

Here’s a more complete version of the interview to evaluate yourself:

Comments (84)

1 2
  • elosogrande
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 11:49am

    Walsh is right. Duckworth has a great military history of which she should be very proud. Her problem is that that part of her life is over, and she thinks she she be elected to Congress because she is a military hero, but she has nothing to offer other than that. She’s just another socialist who wants to get a piece of the action, controling our money.

    Hero or not, we cannot allow incompetent people a seat in The Congress, giving them a license to piss away the little bit of money we have left. Duckworth is a bad choice – she can’t do the job. Walsh has the guts to make the changes we need to “Americanize” The Congress and get it back on track.

    Report Post »  
    • waterbill126
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 1:05pm

      i am from Chicago and this is just another way the old machine works. create an incident and push it down everyone throut without all the details.tammy is a just a shill for the dems in illinois. she has no ffice except to wait around for instructions agenda,no policies and no clue on what to do in office. we went trough this crap with hillary then barry and now tammy. if yopu disagree with thewm then your a sexist,racist and anti-veteren. dont fall for this again…..

      Report Post »  
    • Verceofreason
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 1:13pm

      Walsh’s new campaign slogan is
      BIMBOS BEFORE BABY SHOES.

      Report Post » Verceofreason  
    • Clive
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 2:14pm

      If you don’t believe me, wait until he gets destroyed in the election, and the dems take another seat. People will look at the two candidates, see one of them as a person who served their country, and see another one, that is a generally deplorable human being. Landslide.

      Report Post »  
    • swamp_donkey
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 6:18pm

      yeah duckworth is the incompitent one lmao

      Report Post »  
    • techengineer11
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 6:20pm

      Wow! If I didn‘t know any better I’d say the CNN gal had a horse in the race… lol

      Report Post » techengineer11  
  • Brem
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 11:34am

    Love this guy – most open and honest politician in the USA

    Report Post »  
  • Bronco II
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 11:16am

    The so-called rev Wright served why is beyond me he is disgusting and is not a hero to me he is a hero to Satan but that’s my opinion.Allen West is one of many,many of my heroes.

    Report Post » Bronco II  
  • Guerrino_P
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 11:06am

    Walsh is the true hero. He speaks his truth and refuses to pay child support. Crazy Joe’s the man!

    Report Post »  
    • JRook
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 11:16am

      As if it was even possible, Walsh is a moronic version of Palin and Bachmann. It is truly sad that any media outlet gives him the time of day, but alas like the others he realizes that making stupid and ridiculous statements gets you attention. Unfortunately like Palin and Bachmann, he hasn‘t much to say that’s worth listening to once he gets the attention. Classic Walsh, rather than focus on the issues or policy questions he focuses on demonizing his opponent. Sadder still that some folks here think that is ok and support an individual who doesn’t even have the integrity to support his kids.

      Report Post »  
    • Verceofreason
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 1:15pm

      The right’s standards are so low they are essentially non existent.
      This jerk makes Allen West seem smart.

      Report Post » Verceofreason  
    • usedCZARsalesman
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 2:58pm

      @JROOK and VERSE

      LOL, that is because you liberals have a totally different way of looking at “standards”…I don’t give a rats a$$ if you aren’t that smart, yet you are surrounding yourself with the right people and VOTING THE RIGHT WAY! If a guy votes fiscally (and socially, but fiscally is a BIG first) conservative, AND has a solid ethical grounding, why do I care how intelligent he is? He is smart enough not to do something outright WRONG (that’s why being a MORAL person is important, no matter what the media and liberals tell you) and his votes HELP this country.

      Liberals prefers these snobby, elitist, academia-minded people and all they do is commit MASSIVE corruption and vote for every single job killing, entitlement growing, socialist, morality destroying, anti-american bill that is put in front of them.

      The funny thing, though, is that when these “super smart” people debate our “really dumb” people, they get their A$$ES handed to them…why do you think that is? (also take not that I didn’t talk about party OR right vs left…their are good and bad folks on both sides, but there are NO bad TRUE conservatives and there are NO good TRUE liberals)

      Report Post » usedCZARsalesman  
  • Tom
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 10:55am

    I see his point and its crystal clear. why does she have to constantly regurgitate what is visually clear. Shes looking for the wowas me pity vote.

    Report Post » Tom  
    • swamp_donkey
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 6:22pm

      except she doesnt, wingnut ********* deadbeat dad corporate shill made it up just like when he ignored mccains 12 minute commercial and 2 books about his service, would just love to see the ********* heads exploding on here if someone questioned allan wests service

      Report Post »  
  • dan182j
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 10:30am

    What‘s this lady’s name again? Oh that’s right Ashley

    Report Post » dan182j  
  • Cavallo
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 10:17am

    I can’t believe these people get paid 175K a year.

    Report Post » Cavallo  
  • jblovesAmerica
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 10:15am

    CNN is dying why would any sane person go on those shows-get beat up in front of a small audience.
    if you are going to take the beating make sure plenty of folks are watching.

    Report Post »  
  • Steve28
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 9:58am

    Funny how the left that detest the military use it against the right like a hammer when ever they get the chance. I find it amazing that we had daily body counts under Bush and now when 30 people get killed by a bomb it is no big deal. YO also do not see coffins arriving at the airports on the news anymore. Gee, I wonder why that is?

    Report Post »  
  • TeaDestroyer
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 9:56am

    A Chickenhawk and a deadbeat dad. Because the Liberal Media needs more fodder to make us look like imbeciles. More media bait-and-switch to discredit the Tea Party.

    Report Post » TeaDestroyer  
    • encinom
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 10:37am

      Where is the Tea ****** outrage to distance your group from this Congressman? The Tea ****** Party is silent, their silence means acceptance.

      Report Post »  
    • edmundburk
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 2:45pm

      emicon-where’s your bud-lite can, buddy?

      Report Post » edmundburk  
  • Armyduderetired
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 9:39am

    Geez, you just need to look at the GOP poster child Allen Wests’ statements with Gay Luntz talking to FOX sheep to understand the situation. Walsh can back up what he says if he’s challenged. His action and deeds are consistant with his position. West, on the other hand, talks a good game but when you examine his actions like voting to raise the debt ceiling and the NDAA and a list of other freedom dening bills, you find out its just a big lye. Have we not got the perfect example of this occupying the WH right now? Do your research America and do not be deceived by words. The Truth will set us free. Wake Up America!!!

     
  • chingachgook
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 9:39am

    he has never served in the military and does not know the sacrifices involved. No, just because you served does not make you a hero but it does speak to a attitude that says I will risk my life and well being for my country. It is not a lock on an election but one positive thing to be considered. This guy does not have sense enough to prevent him from minimizing her service.

    Report Post »  
    • crazyrightwingmom
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 11:49am

      He honored her service! Do you think being a war hero means you AUTOMATICALLY have good principles? Where’s the logic?

      Report Post »  
    • Verceofreason
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 1:16pm

      Duckworth is more of man than this loser could ever be.

      Report Post » Verceofreason  
    • chingachgook
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 5:07pm

      he is not honoring her service he is saying that she is just speaking her military experience and nothing else. I do not know if that is true. What I am saying is to emphasis her military experience is fine, but it only part of the picture. He should not have made the statement in that way. The veteran status can be the proverbial third rail. She is to be commended for her service. Going off to war is more than most would do. That in it’s self is a commendable thing. That would start her image in a positive mode. You then build form there. If that is all you have it will be difficult to be elected. I do not know either of them but this is a mistake on his part.

      Report Post »  
  • Gonzo
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 8:55am

    I like him, but I doubt he survives his criticism of his vet opponent. Sometimes in politics, it‘s best not to voice what you’re thinking even if you know it’s true.

    Report Post » Gonzo  
    • Jaycen
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 9:35am

      Excellent remark, Gonzo. Too true.

      I’ve noticed lately how over-the-top the veteran hero stuff has been lately. Yes, men and women are sacrificing for us. Yes, they deserve respect. They don’t deserve deference in every situation. They don’t get to behave like jerks without being called on the carpet for it.

      Report Post » Jaycen  
    • hauschild
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 9:38am

      If something like that sinks Joe, then this country is long past the point of no return.

      Report Post »  
    • Gonzo
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 10:00am

      It’s Illinois, Hauschild. If he was in say Texas, I would agree with you.

      Report Post » Gonzo  
    • Cavallo
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 10:08am

      Hauschld, I thought June 28th would have told you that.

      Report Post » Cavallo  
  • myway
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 8:53am

    He should just admit he is stupid. To bad it would have to be on CNN. Add that one in the D column.

    Report Post » myway  
  • overthecliff
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 8:51am

    Benedict Arnold was a war hero. Did that make him a man of character who loved his country?

    Report Post »  
  • Rational Man
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 8:40am

    Banfield wants to be relevent so bad she can’t hardly stand it. She is just another “sexy secretary” looking bimbo, like S.E. Cupp. Only coming from another political angle. How long has this “news babe” been around anyway. A long, long time. And she really has nothing going for her but her ‘look’ after all these years of obscurity on liberal TV. Walsh may have stepped on his tongue here somewhere. I haven’t payed any attention to this story. I don’t care if he did. I like him.

    Report Post » Rational Man  
    • toto
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 12:15pm

      The boy babes are no better, you can just be uglier.

      Report Post »  
  • nzkiwi
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 8:36am

    This guy lacks judgement. A monumental failing in politics.

    Report Post »  
    • EqualJustice
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 8:49am

      HAHAHHAA How would you know? He never got a chance to talk. LOL

      Report Post » EqualJustice  
    • nzkiwi
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 9:03am

      I was referring to the original comments (linked in this story), which have brought this storm down on his head.

      While he had a lot of trouble being heard in the interview, his initial comments were foolish. Also his self-defence was inept.

      Just because this guy is GOP, that does not automatically make him a good politician. I am well right of centre, but I have to say that Joe Walsh did not help himself, or his party and supporters.

      Report Post »  
    • EqualJustice
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 9:13am

      These people just need to STOP going on these LIBERAL stations for interviews. Notice THEY rarely come to FOX unless they have a COMMIE message they want to spew. I think he is great, no matter how this turned out. He is one of the GOOD guys, sorry. I hope the pit bulls don’t chew his head off to win! I stil back Jow 100%. He tells the truth and that is more important to me.

      Report Post » EqualJustice  
    • skimmer57
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 9:27am

      Equaljustice– You say he’s a good guy? You might want to ask his children you know the ones he has not supported. Yeah he’s a class act.

      Report Post »  
    • Verceofreason
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 1:19pm

      Not to mention character and balls
      What a pathetic narcissist.
      Spending his child support money on HIS campaign and bimbo of course.

      Report Post » Verceofreason  
  • SquidVetOhio
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 8:36am

    Benedict Arnold was an American war hero too. Right up until he became a traitor. Just saying. Besides, I believe we throw that word around a little too lightly anyways. This woman lost her legs in a war. She deserves our respect and admiration for being willing to go. But, I have a question. Does she deserve more respect and adoration than the soldier/sailor/marine that fights, kills, and does not get injured?

    Report Post » SquidVetOhio  
    • Dismayed Veteran
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 1:10pm

      Squid

      I think the answer is no. All deserve the same respect. Being a veteran, wounded or not, does not qualify a person for elected office. The issues should what these two are talking about.

      On an unrelated side note. The mast to The Blaze is screwed up. Is anyone else having that problem?

      Report Post » Dismayed Veteran  
  • mikenleeds
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 8:28am

    why even have interviews on networks like CNN etc..
    you know they are going to though lies out and shout over you
    plus they have zero creditably with the intelligent America people

    Report Post » mikenleeds  
    • Armyduderetired
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 9:28am

      Geez, you just need to look at the GOP poster child Allen Wests’ statements with Gay Luntz talking to FOX sheep to understand the situation. Walsh can back up what he says if he’s challenged. His action and deeds are consistant with his position. West, on the other hand, talks a good game but when you examine his actions like voting to raise the debt ceiling and the NDAA and a list of other freedom dening bills, you find out its just a big lye. Have we not got the perfect example of this occupying the WH right now? Do your research America and do not be deceived by words. The Truth will set us free. Wake Up America!!!

       
    • Fubared
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 10:02am

      Retiree
      Hear you loud and clear. West has been shot at and has served well. Screw the rest, what Dem can you point to with any real world experience? What percent of the GOP served? What percent of either will roll over and present their arse to Islam? Run against him, find a replacement, do something other than spew your retired drivel.

      Report Post »  
  • brntout
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 8:26am

    Think about this..If you are running for office,and you have lost limbs in war,don’t you think your judgement will be impeded due to that trauma? We have enough traumatized folks on Capital Hill..Just look at the current administration who has no tolerance for our military…. Cause they didn’nt have the guts to serve.

    Report Post »  
  • hauschild
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 8:24am

    I like this dude. He’s one of only a handful that is honest, mainly about entitlements. It doesn’t matter how old you are, what you do or have done, it’s time to wake up and lose the entitlement mentality. That goes for old people, government sector workers and yes, even veterans.

    As bad as you think you may have it, you’re still living in a somewhat free country. Wake up, sop-up the tears and start acting like traditional Americans.

    Report Post »  
    • Verceofreason
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 1:21pm

      Walsh is a poster boy for the zero standards of Tea Party darlings.
      He is one one the dumbest most ignorant people ever elected.

      Report Post » Verceofreason  
  • RightUnite
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 8:08am

    Ashley who?? Another brainless bimbo….

    Report Post »  
  • justangry
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 8:08am

    So I had my military blinders on last time. I didn‘t research his voting record before I took the disabled veteran’s side. A quick look at what he thinks of our Civil Liberties, and it’s time for Joe to hit the road.

    Report Post » justangry  
  • Mapache
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 7:59am

    There are millions of Vets and many thousands have suffered severe injuries as a result of their service. We can respect their service and honor their sacrifice but that does not automatically make them a good legislator or candidate. In this important election year the voters need to scrutinize the candidates and understand their positions on important issues and not simply let their vote get carried away by emotional appeals. The stakes are too high and this years elections are too important.

    Report Post » Mapache  
  • v15
    Posted on July 6, 2012 at 7:57am

    This reminds me of John Goodman’s character in “The Big Lebowski.” Not everything is about Vietnam. Likewise with Duckworth, it ain’t all about Iraq.

    Report Post » v15  
    • justangry
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 8:09am

      True, it’s about freedom for me and Joe has a bismal record in that regard.

      Report Post » justangry  
    • EqualJustice
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 8:51am

      I like Joe and I would chose him over anyone. He is BRAVE and he speaks his mind. (when rude libs aren’t talking OVER him, that is)

      Report Post » EqualJustice  
    • saranda
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 9:31am

      @equaljustice – almost hilarious that you say “when rude libs aren’t talking OVER him“ about Joe Walsh who is most famous for interrupting the president with his ”you lie” catcall.
      This guy is a d-bag extraordinaire what with owing back child support (nothing should come before this committment, no matter how bad your relationship with your ex). Joe Walsh has passed his expiration date and we need to just usher him out the door.

      Report Post »  
    • Altair
      Posted on July 6, 2012 at 10:35am

      Wilson. Different guy.

      Report Post »  
    • jlcook
      Posted on July 10, 2012 at 5:16pm

      @Saranda, you might make a compitenet agrument if you had any real facts. That would be Joe Wilson from SC and not the Joe Walsh that sings Rocky Mountain Way. I’m sure you voted for this Turd in office by reading a few of your comments, Left Wing Socialist, and if your not, you are a usefull idiot, either way you are a dult, and a troll. Speak not of what you do not know, in other words shut completely up, we will all be a little smarter not reading your posts.

      Report Post » jlcook  
1 2

Sign In To Post Comments! Sign In

Sign Up For Our Newsletter!

Glenn Beck Radio

Listen to Glenn Beck 24/7 Listen Now
Restoring Love