In a heated exchange on September 30, 2024, CNN anchor John Berman confronted Republican House Whip Rep. Tom Emmer regarding the state of the U.S. economy during a segment focused on Emmer's preparation of Sen. JD Vance for an upcoming vice presidential debate. Berman pointed out that Vance was '12 points underwater' in polls conducted by CNN and Reuters, highlighting the challenges facing the Republican campaign. Emmer attempted to deflect the conversation by criticizing Minnesota Governor Tim Walz, claiming he was unpopular despite winning two statewide elections. Berman countered this assertion with facts about Walz's electoral victories, emphasizing the need for accurate information in political discussions. When the topic shifted back to Vance's economic claims, Berman referenced economist Mark Zandi's positive assessment of the current economy, which stands in stark contrast to the narrative pushed by Trump and his allies. Emmer, however, insisted that inflation remains a significant concern for constituents, arguing that it costs them an additional $1,200 monthly compared to four years ago. Berman challenged Emmer's claims, stressing the importance of factual accuracy in political discourse. This confrontation reflects the ongoing debate about Trump's economic record and the challenges faced by Republican candidates as they navigate public perceptions and polling data. [489f5a28] [35f3dd38]