Tim Scott Defends Trump's Revenge Rhetoric: "No, You Can't Correct Me on This

In a heated exchange with CNN's Abby Phillip, Senator Tim Scott defended former President Trump's vow to seek revenge against his political opponents, dismissing Phillip's attempt to correct him as "low-rated" CNN bias.

Amidst the aftermath of former President Trump's historic conviction in a New York courtroom, Senator Tim Scott, R-S.C., ignited a heated debate with CNN's Abby Phillip over Trump's alleged thirst for "revenge" against his political foes.

Phillip confronted Scott on whether he supported Trump's pledge to appoint a special prosecutor to "go after" President Biden and his family if re-elected. Scott initially evaded the question, stating that Trump's words were simply a reflection of his own statements.

Undeterred, Phillip attempted to clarify Trump's public remarks, asserting that he intended to pursue his political enemies. However, Scott swiftly dismissed her assertion, declaring, "No, you can't correct me on this, Abby."

"I was there when he said it," Scott insisted, referring to Trump's comments at a South Carolina town hall earlier this year, where he declared, "I don't care about the revenge thing... My revenge will be success."

Phillip pressed further, citing Trump's repeated expressions of his intent to exact revenge. But Scott remained defiant, suggesting that CNN's low ratings were indicative of its biased reporting and lack of credibility.

"This is why the ratings on CNN are so low," Scott remarked dismissively. "The bottom line is simply this: President Trump has looked me in my eyes and said, 'You know what? The best revenge is success.'"

Scott's comments sparked further debate, particularly in light of his status as a potential running mate for Trump in the 2024 presidential election. Phillip argued that Trump's public statements about seeking revenge were undeniable and a matter of public record.

Scott countered by questioning Phillip's interpretation of Trump's words, emphasizing his firsthand account of the conversation. "I don't know how you will not take my own word for what I heard with my own ears," Scott asserted.

The exchange highlighted the ongoing tensions between the Trump administration and the media, particularly CNN, which has been frequently criticized by Trump and his allies for its perceived bias.

Despite his conviction on 34 felony counts, Trump has maintained his innocence and dismissed the case as "rigged." His campaign spokesperson, Karoline Leavitt, expressed confidence that he remained a formidable threat to President Biden in the 2024 election.

"Now that he is fully back on the campaign trail, Biden and the Democrats better buckle up," Leavitt declared.

The clash between Scott and Phillip reflects the deep divisions that persist within the Republican Party and the broader American political landscape, as well as the ongoing scrutiny of Trump's actions and the media's coverage of them.