Pastor Bill Owens told CNN host Don Lemon late Monday that President Trump “does not just attack black people” but “attacks anybody,” during an exchange over the president’s criticism of Rep. Elijah Cummings and the Maryland Democrat’s home district.
“What did the president say about his attacks against the leaders of color and did any of the faith leaders raise concerns about that?” Lemon asked Owens on “CNN Tonight” after the pastor shared he has met with the president four times in five months.
{mosads}”I don’t remember him saying anything about colored leaders, leaders that are colored. There was some things discussed, that were said, but I don’t remember him referring to leaders of color,” Owens, an African American, replied.
“Today the meeting was how can we help the black community. That is my concern. That was the purpose of the meeting. That is the reason I came to Washington. That is my focus, helping our inner-city young people especially. Our children. Our young people,” he added.
“So I know it’s hard for you, you think it’s hard to believe that Trump is racist. But he’s repeatedly used racially charged language. He consistently attacks black and brown elected leaders. So, why is that hard to believe, pastor?” Lemon asked.
“I find President Trump leader of all colors. He attacks who he will. He’s his own man. I can’t dictate what he should or shouldn’t do. But he does not just attack black people. He attacks anybody. And you know it,” Owens retorted.
“So as a man of faith, as a Christian he attacks anyone. It sounds like you’re condoning attacks? Is that Christianly or Godly?” Lemon asked.
“I’m just stating a statement of fact. I’m not condoning anything … President Trump does not pick the people he attacks because of color. He attacks anybody he feels needed,” Owens replied.
“And is that okay with you?” Lemon asked.
“I’m not his judge,” Owens said.
The exchange came the night before Trump said he has no regrets about his attacks on Cummings over his handling of his district in Baltimore during his 37 years in Congress.
Trump told reporters outside the White House on Tuesday that he is “the least racist person there is anywhere in the world” while insisting his comments have nothing to do with race.
Trump’s comments on Cummings and Baltimore will likely be broached often during the two Democratic debates in Detroit on Tuesday and Wednesday night.