CNN, In an awkward broadcast error on Friday evening, displayed an incorrect graphic that confused former President Barack Obama with Osama bin Laden, triggering widespread criticism of the network.
The graphic displayed “Obama Bin Laden” during “CNN News Central” while covering a story about President Trump’s proposal to transfer illegal migrants to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.
Although anchor Boris Sanchez did not verbalise the error, the misleading text appeared in the background during a segment about Al-Qaeda operative Abu Zubaydah, who remains detained at the facility.
“OBAMA BIN LADEN ASSOCIATE: ABU ZUBAYDAH,” the graphic incorrectly displayed.
Obama during his presidency had pledged to shut down the contentious facility. His inability to fulfil this promise subsequently enabled Trump’s plan to relocate up to 30,000 criminal migrants to the location.
The error prompted significant social media reaction. Some viewers suggested the mistake was deliberate.
This incident adds to CNN’s recent difficulties. The network, often criticised by President Trump, continues to face declining viewership and staff reductions. The previous month saw CNN eliminate 200 positions across the organisation. Additionally, notable anti-Trump journalists, including Jim Acosta, have departed the network.
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