Tensions are high on CNN after Don Lemon, a news anchor, made a comment about Nikki Haley, the former United States Ambassador to the United Nations, that many viewers deemed offensive. During a discussion about Haley’s potential candidacy for the 2024 presidential election, Lemon said that Haley was “past her prime” – a comment that has sparked outrage and controversy.

The tension began when Lemon and CNN political analyst April Ryan discussed the possibility of Haley running for president in 2024. Ryan suggested that Haley’s age could be a factor in her potential candidacy, noting that she is only 48 years old. Lemon then quipped that she was “past her prime” – a comment that was met with an audible gasp from Ryan. Lemon then attempted to backtrack, saying that he was “just kidding” and that he “didn’t mean it that way.”

The comment has been widely criticized, with many viewers and commentators accusing Lemon of sexism. In particular, some have noted that Lemon’s comment was made in the context of discussing Haley’s potential candidacy for the presidency – a position that has historically been held by men, and one that is often seen as a position of power and authority. As such, many have interpreted Lemon’s comment as implying that women are not capable of holding such a position of power, or that they are past their prime once they reach a certain age.

In response to the backlash, Lemon has since apologized for his comment, saying that he “regrets” what he said and that it was “inappropriate.” He also noted that he “didn’t mean it in a sexist way” and that he was “just trying to make a joke.”

Haley herself has not commented on the controversy, though she did retweet a statement from her former communications director, who said that Lemon’s comment was “wrong and offensive.”

The controversy has raised questions about the role of sexism in the media, and the role of women in positions of power. It has also prompted many to call for greater representation of women in the media, and for the media to be more mindful of how it portrays women.

Overall, the controversy surrounding Don Lemon’s comment about Nikki Haley has sparked a much-needed conversation about sexism in the media, and the importance of representation of women in positions of power. While Lemon has apologized for his comment, it remains to be seen how the incident will affect his career and the future of CNN.