In a recent interview with Colorado Public Radio (CPR), Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) engaged in a heated exchange with reporter Ryan Warner regarding climate change, immigration, and “the tone of his questions.”
The interview, published on Monday, showcased tensions over fact-checking and political bias.
Boebert expressed her “extreme disappointment” about what she termed the “bias” in reporter Ryan Warner’s questions about a third of the way through the interview. She later clashed with him over climate change and water issues, stating, “there’s certainly a reason” she doesn’t “listen to CPR news.”
The dialogue intensified when the topic shifted to the Inflation Reduction Act, which includes billions in tax credits for climate-friendly energy sources. Boebert asked, “Are we having a debate or an interview? I’m just checking.”
Warner responded, “Well, first of all, I get to say things as a journalist to set the record straight, so inflation is easing.”
“Oh, you’re going to fact-check me during the interview,” Boebert retorted.
“That’s exactly right, and inflation is easing,” Warner shot back.
“OK, this is adorable,” Boebert retorted. “Go to your local King Soopers or your City Market and ask the shoppers if inflation is down when they’re buying one dozen eggs for $7, $10.”
Earlier in the discussion, they had also tangled over immigration, with Boebert accusing Warner of bias for questioning her about former President Trump’s role in “scuttling” a border deal proposed by a prominent conservative senator.
“It’s very unfortunate that we are having this time together to communicate policy and every one of your questions is so far skewed and is so partisan,” Boebert replied, dodging the question.
The exchange became particularly tense during discussions about water resources, a critical issue for Boebert’s constituents. When Warner asked how she viewed the impact of climate change on water availability, Boebert retorted, “Wow. That’s certainly a reason I don’t listen to CPR news,” implying a partisan slant in the question.
Warner defended his inquiry, stating, “No, I’m going to stop here and say it is … I’m sorry, congresswoman. It is not a partisan statement, to say that warming temperatures —.” Boebert interrupted, eventually outlining her stance on Colorado’s water sources.
Boebert, who represents the 3rd Congressional District but is running for reelection in the 4th District, faced scrutiny over her responses and the perception of her engagement with pressing issues.
