BREAKING: In a shocking segment on CNN’s “The Lead with Jake Tapper,” guest Jamie Schwesnedl, a co-owner of a Minnesota bookstore, suggested that Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents could soon start “putting people in ovens.” This incendiary comment, made during a discussion on immigration enforcement, has sparked outrage and concern across the nation.
Schwesnedl’s remarks, which included a reference to historical concentration camps, were made on October 20, 2023, during a live broadcast. He stated, “They take people to Fort Snelling here, which literally was built as a concentration camp,” drawing parallels to the infamous Nazi camps. His comments come amid a backdrop of heightened tensions regarding immigration policy and enforcement in the United States.
The conversation escalated as Schwesnedl continued, “Not saying they’re Dachau… I’m not saying they’re putting people in ovens—yet. But these are concentration camps.” This controversial comparison has ignited a firestorm on social media, with many questioning the appropriateness of such analogies in the current political climate.
UPDATE: Jake Tapper appeared visibly uncomfortable during the segment, attempting to distance himself from Schwesnedl’s remarks. Despite his objections, he allowed the guest to speak for over 20 seconds after the incendiary statement, raising eyebrows about his true feelings regarding the comparison.
The segment has brought renewed scrutiny to ICE, especially following the recent approval by Secretary of War Pete Hegseth for Customs and Border Patrol to utilize space at Fort Snelling, a decommissioned military base near the Twin Cities. Critics argue that the use of such language only exacerbates divisive rhetoric surrounding immigration enforcement.
This incident follows a pattern of escalating tensions and violence related to immigration debates in the U.S. Many commentators are now calling for a more responsible dialogue regarding immigration policies and the impact of such incendiary comparisons.
As the situation develops, observers are closely monitoring reactions from both political leaders and the public. The controversy surrounding Schwesnedl’s remarks highlights the urgent need for a balanced discussion on immigration enforcement and human rights.
WHAT’S NEXT: With public backlash mounting, it remains to be seen how CNN will address this segment and whether further discussions on the topic will be held. As the debate continues, many are encouraged to engage in civil discourse surrounding immigration and its implications.
Stay tuned for updates as this story develops.
