In a tense interview on NewsNation, former Trump strategist Steve Bannon reportedly intensified his campaign against Senator Lindsey Graham (R-SC), urging that the senator be jailed for what he perceives as his provocative stance on the Ukraine conflict.
The exchange, which aired on Monday night, highlighted the escalating tensions surrounding U.S. involvement in Ukraine and the divisive opinions within the Republican Party.
Bannon, known for his contentious rhetoric, reiterated his position that Graham is misleading the public by promoting a more aggressive American stance in support of Ukraine.
“He’s giving Ukrainians false hope,” Bannon asserted, suggesting that Graham’s comments could lead the U.S. deeper into a conflict that many Americans do not support.
“Two things ought to happen; either cancel his passport and don’t let him back in the country, or put him in jail if he comes back,” he declared emphatically.
The dialogue between Bannon and Cuomo became increasingly heated as Cuomo challenged Bannon’s assertions.
The former CNN anchor pointed out that advocating for the imprisonment of a U.S. senator over political disagreements is not only unprecedented but also reflects a dangerous precedent. “You can’t be throwing people in jail because you don’t like what they say,” Cuomo retorted.
“That sounds like the worst of the deep state, and lawfare.”
Bannon maintained his stance, arguing that Graham’s actions could embroil the U.S. in a war with Russia, a notion he deemed unacceptable.
He emphasized the seriousness of the situation, recalling historical moments when U.S. military strategies were carefully considered to avoid escalation. “This thing is so serious,” Bannon warned, criticizing current policies as reckless.
Cuomo, while acknowledging the potential dangers of further U.S. involvement in Ukraine, reiterated his belief in the importance of free speech and the necessity of political discourse.
“I don’t disagree with that,” he said, “but I’m just saying you can’t be throwing people in jail because you don’t like what they say.”
The exchange illustrates the growing rift within the Republican Party regarding foreign policy, particularly in relation to Ukraine. Bannon’s calls for Graham’s arrest resonate with a segment of the party that is increasingly skeptical of U.S. military engagements abroad.
Meanwhile, Graham continues to advocate for extreme support for Ukraine, positioning himself as a key player in shaping U.S. foreign policy in spite of his well-known pro-war bias.
As the conflict in Ukraine evolves and U.S. involvement remains contentious, the ideological battles within the GOP are likely to intensify.
Bannon’s fiery remarks reflect not only his personal convictions but also the broader divisions within Trump’s current GOP.
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