CNN Bans Writer Ryan Girdusky for Life Following Controversial Remarks Against Muslim Journalist Mehdi Hasan

CNN has issued a lifetime ban to writer Ryan Girdusky following a controversial exchange with British Muslim journalist Mehdi Hasan during a panel discussion.

The incident unfolded as the discussion grew heated around the issue of labeling individuals as anti-Semitic. Hasan, an author and editor-in-chief of news site Zeteo, mentioned his support for Palestinian rights, adding that he often faces such accusations.

Girdusky responded with, “Well, I hope your beeper doesn’t go off,” a remark widely interpreted as a reference to an Israeli attack in September when thousands of pagers and walkie-talkies detonated in Lebanon, injuring thousands and killing dozens.

Hasan quickly reacted, asking Girdusky, “Are you a racist, violent person inciting violence against me?” Girdusky attempted to clarify, saying he thought Hasan had mentioned “Hamas,” but Hasan dismissed this, calling the comment “racist.”

The exchange drew immediate backlash, with Girdusky later defending himself on social media. He claimed CNN allowed guests to “falsely call every Republican a Nazi” while penalizing him for a “joke.”

CNN, however, issued a statement firmly condemning the remarks. “There is zero room for racism or bigotry at CNN or on our air,” the network stated. “We aim to foster thoughtful conversations and debate… but we will not allow guests to be demeaned or for the line of civility to be crossed. Ryan Girdusky will not be welcomed back at our network.”