"The Prime of a Woman is in Her 20s to 40s"... Backlash Over US Anchor's Controversial Remark

Mentioned Amid Criticism of Former Ambassador Hailey's Remarks
Fierce Criticism Across Both Conservative and Progressive Camps

Don Lemon, the flagship morning news anchor of CNN, faced controversy over a sexist remark while criticizing former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Nikki Haley, who announced her candidacy for the Republican presidential primary.

On the 16th (local time) on CNN, Don Lemon took issue with Haley’s statement that "politicians over the age of 75 should be required to undergo mental capacity tests," targeting President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump.

CNN's flagship anchors Kaitlan Collins, Don Lemon, and Poppy Harlow (from left) [Photo by AP·Yonhap News]

At 56 years old this year, he said, "I feel uncomfortable hearing this age-related comment," adding, "This is wrong."

He continued, "If someone says they are 'not in their prime,' then sorry, Nikki Haley is not in her prime either. Women’s prime is considered to be in their 20s, 30s, or 40s." Haley is 51 years old this year.

Co-host Poppy Harlow immediately pushed back against Lemon’s remark. Harlow asked, "Is the 'prime' Don Lemon is talking about referring to fertility?" Lemon replied, "I’m just stating facts. Look it up on Google."

He added, "I was just saying that (a certain) politician is not in their prime, and when someone says politics should only be done in one’s prime, Haley should be careful. Because according to Google and others, she is not in her prime."

After Lemon’s comments aired, criticism poured in from conservatives, progressives, and across the political spectrum alike.

Kate Bennett, a former CNN White House correspondent, immediately criticized on Twitter, calling it "sexism." Haley herself shared the video and condemned it, saying, "Progressives are always the most sexist."

As the backlash intensified, Lemon attempted to make amends, saying, "My comment about women’s prime was clumsy and inappropriate, and I regret it," adding, "A woman’s age does not define her professionally or personally, and I know countless women who prove that every day in their lives."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.