Senator John Kennedy’s comments during a press conference about a terrorist attack in Louisiana have drawn significant backlash from both Democrats and some Republicans.
The attack, which occurred on Bourbon Street in New Orleans and left at least 15 dead, prompted a response from Kennedy and other officials. During the press conference, Kennedy made a controversial remark about NBC News’ positioning, which seemed to suggest a political bias.
When a reporter tried to clarify his comment, Kennedy’s response, You wouldn’t, was seen as dismissive and tone-deaf, given the tragic context of the event.
The backlash came swiftly, with political pundits like Keith Olbermann criticizing Kennedy for being “tone deaf and selfish, while some conservatives also voiced frustration over the senator’s focus on his own remarks rather than addressing the tragedy. Kennedy’s behavior during the conference, including sipping from two red solo cups and promising to “raise fresh hell” if dissatisfied with the FBI’s investigation, further fueled the criticism.
However, some conservative voices, like Kimberly Klacik, defended Kennedy, suggesting that he was right to take control of the press conference, which she deemed poorly managed by federal authorities.
The incident highlights the sensitivity required when addressing national tragedies, with many calling out Kennedy for diverting attention away from the seriousness of the attack.