A new segment from MS NOW labels a man in a Black Lives Matter hoodie as a “Trump supporter,” sparking accusations of media malpractice and manipulation.
The Segment at the Heart of Controversy
On a recent episode of MS NOW, a rebranded version of MSNBC, a field reporter in Minneapolis interviewed a man identified on-screen as “Cassius Price: Trump Supporter.” The segment, aired during Katy Tur’s show, featured Price expressing criticism of President Trump’s reaction to an incident where an ICE agent allegedly shot a woman attempting to run him over. Price, notably wearing a Black Lives Matter hoodie, was labeled as a Trump supporter, a detail that quickly drew skepticism from conservative commentators.
Many argue that labeling Price as a Trump supporter while wearing BLM apparel is a deliberate attempt to suggest division within Trump’s base. This perceived inconsistency has led to accusations of media bias and narrative manipulation. The timing of the chyron, appearing only after Price’s criticism of Trump, is cited as evidence of potential framing tactics employed by the network.
MSNOW interviews guy in a BLM Hoodie, labels him a “Trump Supporter." pic.twitter.com/YP1xfRCfDp
— Western Lensman (@WesternLensman) January 8, 2026
Critics and Right-Leaning Commentary
The segment has become a rallying point for conservative media, with outlets like Twitchy framing it as “media malpractice.” Right-leaning social media accounts have amplified this narrative, accusing MS NOW of agitprop and misrepresentation. Influential accounts, such as @WesternLensman, have shared the clip, arguing that genuine Trump supporters would not typically wear BLM merchandise, thus questioning the credibility of the segment.
Despite the uproar, there has been no response from MS NOW or its representatives. The lack of an official statement or correction has allowed the controversy to persist, primarily within conservative circles, where it serves as a symbolic example of perceived mainstream media dishonesty.
Wider Implications and Media Perception
This incident highlights ongoing tensions between mainstream media and conservative audiences. It underscores the importance of accurate representation and the potential consequences of perceived media bias. For MS NOW, the incident poses reputational risks, especially as it attempts to reposition its brand amid a competitive media landscape. The network’s critics argue that repeated instances of alleged bias could deter trust and engagement from non-aligned viewers.
The broader media narrative about a “fracturing” Trump base is not new, but this segment adds fuel to the discourse. It reflects ongoing polarization and the challenges of reporting in a highly divided political environment. As such, this episode serves as a cautionary tale for media outlets on the significance of thorough vetting and transparent reporting.
Sources:
Twitchy: MS NOW Interviews a ‘Trump Supporter’ in Minneapolis Wearing a BLM Hoodie
Wikipedia: January 6 United States Capitol Attack