A CNN segment this week took an unexpected turn when political commentator Ana Navarro and GOP strategist Shermichael Singleton clashed on-air over illegal immigration and historical comparisons to slavery.
The heated exchange led CNN anchor Abby Phillip to abruptly cut to a commercial break.
The discussion took place during a panel segment on CNN, where Ana Navarro—regular contributor and co-host on ABC’s The View—responded to comments from Shermichael Singleton about the distinction between illegal immigration and the forced migration of African slaves.
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Singleton stated, “If you come to this country illegally, you are going HOME!” Navarro then responded, “There’s a hell of a lot of people who other than the Black people who were brought here as slaves, who came to this country illegally.”
Singleton replied directly, “They are NOT the same as Black people who were brought here against our will!”
At that point, Navarro raised her voice and appeared emotional, saying, “That’s exactly what I just said!”
Singleton followed up with, “Last time I checked, I’m Black. You’re not.”
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Navarro then added, “I’m Latino and my people are being racially profiled!”
🚨HOLY MOLY: Ana Navarro’s complete meltdown on CNN just caused Abby Phillip to cut to commercial.@MrShermichael: “If you com to this country illegally, you are going HOME!”
Ana Navarro: “There’s a hell of a lot of people who other than the black people who were brought here… pic.twitter.com/BdjXKScl1Z
— Townhall.com (@townhallcom) May 1, 2025
CNN anchor Abby Phillip, who was moderating the segment, quickly moved to end the escalating exchange by cutting to a commercial break.
The viral clip of the moment was widely circulated on social media and covered by several media outlets, including Townhall.
Reactions to the incident have highlighted the growing tensions surrounding the ongoing national debate over immigration policy, identity politics, and media discourse.
Shermichael Singleton, a political consultant and commentator, has previously worked with high-profile Republicans including former House Speaker Newt Gingrich, former presidential candidate Mitt Romney, and Dr. Ben Carson during his 2018 presidential campaign.
Singleton has been a frequent voice on television networks providing conservative perspectives on domestic policy and political trends.
Ana Navarro, a longtime Republican strategist who has become a vocal critic of the modern GOP, frequently discusses race, immigration, and social justice issues.
Her comments during the CNN segment appeared to link modern-day illegal immigration with the broader historical narrative of forced migration and systemic discrimination, a comparison Singleton strongly rejected.
The segment also drew attention for the reaction of anchor Abby Phillip, who was visibly uncomfortable as the exchange escalated.
Media analysts noted that her decision to end the segment reflected the challenge of maintaining control during high-conflict live discussions.
The incident adds to ongoing scrutiny of on-air political debates in major cable news programming, particularly as networks attempt to balance diverse viewpoints while managing increasingly polarized conversations.
As of Thursday afternoon, neither Navarro nor Singleton had released official statements following the exchange. CNN also declined to comment on the moment or Phillip’s decision to cut to break.
The network has faced criticism in recent years from various political angles over its editorial direction and handling of live debates.
The on-air conflict this week further highlights the contentious environment surrounding immigration and race in the national conversation, especially as President Donald Trump’s administration continues to pursue strict immigration enforcement measures and public opinion remains deeply divided on the issue.
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