NewsNation host Chris Cuomo sharply criticized a viewer during his Thursday show. The viewer had disagreed with Cuomo's Nov. 7 claim that President-elect Donald Trump "has to unify." The comment, posted on YouTube, argued that unity wouldn't be a priority for Trump, who thrives on division.
Cuomo fired back with blunt words. “That’s because you don’t understand leadership and governance versus antagonism and campaigning," he said. Cuomo dismissed the viewer as being ignorant and driven by negativity, not insight. “I don’t give a shit who you are; that’s how you present, and that’s how you came to me,” he added.
The host argued Trump aims for more than division. "Donald Trump understands that he is not considered great in the pages of history. He is scandal, he is diminishment of norms,” Cuomo stated. He believes Trump wants to change that. “How do I know I’m right and not you? Well, one, I know him and you don’t,” he said.
Cuomo also mentioned a first-term initiative called "DJT 100," which sought 100% popularity. He claimed the effort was abandoned but showed Trump’s desire for wider appeal. “He is best served by no longer being the spirit animal of the outraged in the right fringe,” Cuomo argued. He suggested Trump could thrive by expanding his base.
Despite criticisms, Trump remains a strong contender. According to The Associated Press, he leads Vice President Kamala Harris in the popular vote by 2%, with nearly 76 million votes. Cuomo emphasized that unity could solidify his legacy and elevate his standing in history.
Trump himself spoke of unity in his Nov. 6 victory speech. “It’s time to put the divisions of the past four years behind us. It’s time to unite, and we’re going to try. We have to try,” he said. Trump linked unity to success, claiming it brought people together during his first term.
Cuomo’s remarks highlight the ongoing debate over Trump’s leadership style. Whether Trump seeks unity or thrives on division remains a contentious issue, stirring strong opinions on both sides.